Extremists denounce Abu Sayyaf in Sulu

From the Manila Times (Apr 7, 2022): Extremists denounce Abu Sayyaf in Sulu (By Julmunir Jannaral)

Two former Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) members denounced the group's deception as they handed over their firearms to the military in Sulu on Tuesday, April 5.

Maj. Gen. Ignatius Patrimonio, commander of Joint Task Force Sulu, said the surrender of the ASG members was an offshoot of the active collaboration between the military and the police.

Patrimonio identified the surrendered personalities as alias Udar, 42 years old, a resident of Panamao, and a follower of Senior Leader Radullan Sahiron, and alias Al, 42 years old, a resident of Luuk, and a follower of sub-leader Idang Susukan and late sub-leader Alhabsy Misaya.

"Despaired by the terrorist group's deception, the two decided to end their armed struggle and return to the folds of the law," Patrimonio said.

The surrendered personalities handed over one Elisco M16A1 rifle, one US cal. 30 M1 Garand rifle, one Colt 1911 and.45 cal pistols with magazine loaded with five live ammunition, three long and two short magazines of M16A1 rifle loaded with 41 rounds of 5.56mm live ammunition, five rounds of M203 live ammunition and one black bandolier to the troops of the 4th Marine Brigade in Barangay Tandu Bato, Luuk, Sulu.

The duo revealed that they are tired of evading the government forces and victimizing innocent civilians. They also fear being killed due to the ASG's weakened capability and the intensified operations of the military in the province.

"The success of the AFP's campaign against terrorism is attributable to the synergy among security forces coupled with the unwavering support of the local government units, peace partners, the religious leaders, and the locals," Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario Jr., commander of Western Mindanao Command said.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2022/04/07/news/regions/extremists-denounce-abu-sayyaf-in-sulu/1839108