WESTMINCOM: Gov’t forces capture Sayyaf’s firearms, motorboat in Sulu

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Website (Mar 12, 2019): Gov’t forces capture Sayyaf’s firearms, motorboat in Sulu



Government troops captured Abu Sayyaf militants’ motorboat and firearms in Sulu on March 10.

Combined forces of the Joint Task Force Sulu and the Philippine National Police seized from an Abu Sayyaf coddler an M16A1 rifle, a Caliber .45 pistol, magazines, and a motorized bangka of the militants following a joint operation in Barangay Tainga Bakkao, Banguigui at 11:30am on Sunday.

The JTF Sulu said the Abu Sayyaf utilized the motorized bangka to transport militants that evaded government forces in several armed engagements in mainland Sulu.

Security forces acted on a tip-off from a civilian in the area.

Brigadier General Divino Rey Pabayo, Jr., the JTF Sulu Commander, said the recent involvement of the populace in its campaign is a clear indication that terrorists are losing the support of the public.

“With the active support of the Tausug communities, I am confident that the problem with the Abu Sayyaf will soon be over,” added Pabayo.

Military troops continue to launch combat operations against Abu Sayyaf militants hiding in the hinterlands of Sulu.

“Our joint task force in Sulu is stepping up its campaign to hound terrorists by building up its intelligence and combat operations,” said Lieutenant General Arnel Dela Vega, the commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

“While sustaining that, military troops work with the police and the Suluanons to pursue militants and their coddlers in the area,” he added.

http://www.westmincom.com/govt-forces-capture-sayyafs-firearms-motorboat-in-sulu/