Jolo test mission bomb plot bared

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines - Police and military forces intensified security after intercepting plot of the Abu Sayyaf group to conduct bombing in the downtown of Jolo, capital of Sulu.

The Joint Task Group Sulu (JTGS) disclosed the Abu Sayyaf group under sub-leader Majan Sahidjuan, who is an expert in demotion, has reportedly deployed six recruits to conduct the bombing.

The mission, based on military intelligence report, was part of the test mission of the new recruits.

The military revealed that targets include passenger vessels, different business establishments, coast guard station, cathedral, public market and road leading to the airport.

Aside from the test mission, the bombing plot was reportedly part of the Abu Sayyaf group’s diversionary tactics to ease the offensive pressure launched by the government forces against its comrades in the hinterlands of Sulu.

Factions of the Abu Sayyaf group staged bomb attacks weeks ago in Jolo, hitting a combat police patrol car and a videoke bar near the military headquarters.

At least seven Marines were injured after their convoy hit a roadside bombing at Barangay Lagtoh, Talipao town last week.

The injured Marines who were brought to the military hospital here for further treatment were awarded each with a Wounded Personnel Medal by Lt. Gen. Mayoralgo dela Cruz, chief of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom).

Dela Cruz said relentless focused military operation against Abu Sayyaf continued even during the political campaign period in Sulu to secure both the civilians and the candidates.