Abu Sayyaf tagged in Jolo bombing

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – Police have tagged the Abu Sayyaf as behind Saturday’s bombing that killed two civilians and wounded 14 others in downtown Jolo, Sulu.

Sulu police director Senior Superintendent Antonio Freyra said police have gathered information linking the Abu Sayyaf to the bombing in front of the Cleopatra Commercial Store along Serantes Street in Jolo.

An improvised explosive device concealed in a plastic bag was abandoned near a generator set in front of the store, he added.

Investigation has yet to be completed to determine the type of bomb, he said.

Freyra said based on their information, the attack could be in retaliation for the killing of a holdup suspect 10 days ago in Jolo during a police security operation.

The suspect’s brother, an Abu Sayyaf member, has vowed to avenge his death, he added.

Freyra said the Abu Sayyaf could have also targeted businessmen who have not heeded extortion demands.

“But we are validating this information to determine the motive of the attacks,” he said.

Troops have been placed on standby to assist police after investigation pointed to the Abu Sayyaf, Lt. Col. Randolf Cabangbang, Armed Forces Western Mindanao Command spokesman said.