Seven soldiers wounded in battles with Abu Sayyaf in Sulu

November 1, 2019

Seven soldiers were wounded in a series of encounters with the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu last Wednesday.

Major Arvin Encinas, Armed Forces of Philippines (AFP) Western Mindanao Command spokesman, said operating troops of the 1st Scout Ranger Battalion encountered around 30 Abu Sayyaf under Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan in Sitio Kan Mindang, Barangay Pangdanon, Patikul, Sulu  around 8 am.

Encinas said the 50-minute firefight resulted in the wounding of five soldiers who were extricated from the encounter site and are recuperating at Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital in Busbus, Jolo.

Maj. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, JTF Sulu commander, expressed belief "that a number of bandits were wounded and probably could have died due to loss of blood for our troops have seen lots of bloodstains in the enemy position and in their withdrawal route."

Vinluan said the encounter resulted in the discovery of an enemy encampment in Barangay Panglayahan of the same municipality.

“The enemy encampment can accommodate more or less 50 persons,” he said.

Encinas said government forces recovered "improvised explosive  devices, medical supplies, food supplies, 30 pieces empty gallons, personal belongings, detonating cord, 10-15 meters lead wire, 15 kilos rice, poncho, laminated sacks, one hammock, empty shells of 5.56mm and 7.62 mm link,  and two backpacks".

He said "while pursuing the fleeing enemies, operating troops chanced upon more or less 10 Abu Sayyaf under Mundi Sawadjaan and Yusop in Sitio Kanlimbungan, Barangay Tanum, Patikul at 4:20pm of the same day."

"The 20-minute firefight resulted in the slight wounding of two  soldiers while casualty on the enemy side is yet to be determined," Encinas said.

He said "WestMinCom commander, Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana commended the (Scout) Rangers for their untiring dedication to their duties and made sure that the battle casualties will be given utmost care while undergoing medical treatment." Robina Asido/DMS