Sulu royal army fighters regroup in Sabah

MANILA, Philippines - The fighters of the Sulu sultanate’s royal security force under the command of Agbimuddin Kiram regrouped in Lahad Datu, Sabah, it was learned yesterday.

Sultanate spokesman Abraham Idjirani said around 135 fighters of Agbimuddin regrouped and were reinforced by around 100 armed supporters from Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.

“They have regrouped and were even augmented. The only problem they have right now is the lack of food,” Idjirani said.

Idjirani added that the Malaysian security forces are also observing the unilateral ceasefire that was earlier declared by the sultanate of Sulu.

“There are no clashes so far but the Raja Muda has reported hearing gunfire at night,” Idjirani said, adding that the gunfire were not directed at Agbimuddin’s forces.

The sultanate’s forces are still engaged in a standoff with Malaysian security forces since they entered Sabah in February.