ASG man gives up after 13 years of fighting

 From the Manila Times (May 5, 2023): ASG man gives up after 13 years of fighting (By Al Jacinto)

ZAMBOANGA CITY: An Abu Sayyaf fighter, branded by security officials as "notorious," has surrendered to the Philippine Navy in Zamboanga City, after 13 years as a member of the pro-Islamic State terrorist group.

The Navy said Benjamin Husin, also known as Sabar, was operating in Sulu, but had been hiding here after escaping a military campaign in the province.

He also served as a "spotter" of the Abu Sayyaf under Alhabsy Misaya in Zamboanga City.

"During an encounter in 2017, Sabar sustained gunshot wounds. After years of being involved in a series of encounters and ambuscades against government troops, he eventually decided to surrender and live a normal life with the hopes of reuniting with his family," it also said, adding that the former terrorist also handed his Garand rifle and a clip of magazine.

He was then presented to Rear Admiral Donn Anthony Miraflor, commander of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao.

"The surrenderer also underwent a medical checkup at Camp Navarro General Hospital and will be duly turned over to Joint Task Force-Zamboanga for proper documentation for appropriate disposition and the surrenderer's possible inclusion in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program," the Navy said.

"The continuing surrender of ASG (Abu Sayyaf Group) members is a testament to the government's continuous efforts in ensuring peace and security in the region. It is hoped that this success will encourage more extremists to lay down their arms and surrender, leading to lasting peace and stability in the area," it added.

The Navy did not say how long Husin has been hiding here or whether he was involved in previous terror attacks here.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2023/05/05/regions/asg-man-gives-up-after-13-years-of-fighting/1889971