Soldier dead, 1 more hurt in Lamitan attack

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines  - - An army intelligence operative was killed while his companion was seriously wounded when they were attacked Sunday by gunmen believed to be members of the Abu Sayyaf urban terror group in Lamitan City, Basilan,  the police said.

Polcie identified the slain army serviceman as Corporal Richard Jamin, while his wounded comrade was Private First Class Joelito Sanchez, both intelligence operatives of the 32nd Infantry Battalion based in Lamitan City.

Lamitan City Police Station commander Police Chief Inspector Almer Ismael said the victims were on board their service motorcycle believed to be on mission when they were waylaid by four gunmen  also on board two motorcycles about 12:30 p.m. Sunday along the highway in Barangay  Ubit.

Jamin died on the spot from multiple gunshot wounds while Sanchez sustained multiple gunshot wounds but survived the attack as he was brought to St. Peter Hospital for treatment in Lamitan City.

Police investigation further disclosed that suspects could be members of the hit squad of the Abu Sayyaf group.