6 Abu Sayyaf, 3 soldiers killed in Sulu clash

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — Six Abu Sayyaf bandits and three soldiers were killed in an encounter in Patikul, Sulu on Friday.

Maj. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., Joint Task Force Sulu commander, said three soldiers were also wounded in the clash.

“We are sad... three brave soldiers paid the ultimate sacrifice to defend and secure the people of Sulu,” Vinluan said.

He said pursuing troops recovered the remains of three of the slain Abu Sayyaf bandits.

The casualties on the side of the government were brought to the Military Station Hospital at Camp Teodulfo Bautista in Barangay Busbus in Jolo.

Maj. Arvin Encinas, spokesman for the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), said the clash occurred when an undetermined number of Abu Sayyaf bandits fired at soldiers belonging to the 32nd Infantry Battalion in Barangay Taong at about 11 a.m.

Encinas said the fighting lasted for almost an hour.

The Westmincom expressed its condolences to the families of the slain soldiers.

Encinas said financial assistance would be provided to their families.