ASG bandit killed, MILF fighter wounded in Basilan clash

ABU SAYYAF GROUP (Photo courtesy of the Institute for the Study of Violent Groups)

MANILA — An Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandit was killed while a Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) fighter was wounded in a clash at Barangay Pamatsaken, Sumisip, Basilan Saturday morning, the military reported.

1st Lt. Sally Magno, 104th Infantry Brigade civil-military operations officer, said the MILF contingents in the area encountered an estimated 50 bandits believed to be from the groups of ASG leaders Radzmil Janatul, alias “Khubayb,” Juhaibel Almasirul, alias “Abu Kik,” and Pasil Bayali at about 10 a.m.

In the issuing firefight, one MILF fighter identified as Sahid Liberal was wounded.

Troopers and armored units from the 64th Infantry Battalion commanded by Lt. Col. Raymund Recaido immediately responded to reinforce the beleaguered MILF fighters at 11 a.m.

Magno said these military units were accompanied by MILF members and Barangay Central chair Marjim M. Barillo.

Sensing the approaching troops, the ASG bandits retreated towards the direction of Barangay Baiwas, Sumisip town.

She added that 64th Infantry Battalion troopers facilitated the evacuation of Liberal who was transported by his relatives to the Basilan Community Hospital in Isabela City.

Pursuit operations were conducted by military and MILF forces against the ASG, resulting in the death of one bandit.

Magno said pursuing troops and the MILF were able to clear the ASG camp and a jungle base that was previously overrun by the military during its January operations at Barangays Pamatsaken and Baiwas.