Prosecutors charge 3 Abu Sayyaf members with rebellion

August 17, 2017

Three members of the Abu Sayyaf Group arrested during an encounter with Philippine Marines last week were charged with rebellion before the Department of Justice.

The martial law authorities presented Salip Ismael Abdulla, Isa Ukang and a minor for inquest proceedings presided by Asst. State Prosecutor George Yarte Jr.

The AFP presented as evidence explosives and firearms seized from the bandits, including two M16 rifles, an M14 rifle, a Garand rifle, a KG-9 sub-marine gun, a homemade Cal .50 sniper rifle and a shotgun.

Assisted by public attorneys, the respondents denied the charges and sought dismissal of the charges. Mindanao is under martial law following attacks by Maute terrorist group and the Abu Sayyaf in Malawi City last May 23. Hundreds of  the attackers have since been arrested.

In a complaint filed by the Armed Forces of the Philippines - Western Mindanao Command (AFP-WestMinCom), the three were among 30 Abu Sayyaf members clashed with Marines  at Barangay Pang in Kalingalan Caluang town, Sulu.

Two Marines were killed while another soldier was wounded during the encounter. Five Abu Sayyaf members were killed.  DMS