Abu Sayyaf bandit killed in clash with military

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines - A member of the Abu Sayyaf group was killed while two others were wounded following an encounter Friday morning with government troops in the hinterland of Sumisip town, Basilan, a military official said.

Marine Capt. Maria Rowena Muyuela, spokesperson of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), said the troopers from the 4th Special Forces Battalion were on combat mission when they encountered 15 Abu Sayyaf bandits at about 7 a.m. in Barangay Kaumpamatsaken.

A 15-minute fire fight ensued, leaving one Abu Sayyaf member killed and two others wounded.

“But the troopers suffered one wounded (soldier) in action as a result of the encounter,” Muyuela said.

The military said the Abu Sayyaf bandits dragged away their wounded companions and fled towards the forested mountain of Barangay Kaumpamatsaken near Sampinit Complex.

Muyuela said the troops continue to relentlessly pursue the fleeing Abu Sayyaf militants.