TEN alleged members of rebel group Abu Sayyaf were killed in a clash against the government troops in Patikul, Sulu since Saturday, the military said Monday.
Western Mindanao Command spokesperson Major Felimon Tan said forces from the 35th Infantry Battalion had a firefight with at least 150 Abu Sayyaf members led by Radullan Sahiron in Bud Taming, Baranggay Kabbontakas in the said town while conducting focused military operations in the area.
He said three soldiers were killed and 21 others were wounded while six rebel group members were also injured in the clash that lasted for about two hours as confirmed by intelligence units on the ground and validated by civilians in the area.
“Fire support and close air support were provided to the engaged troops. Adjacent units also conducted blocking and pursuit operations as casualties were immediately brought to KHTB Hospital. Two soldiers needed additional medical attention were airlifted to Camp Navarro General Hospital in Zamboanga City,” said Tan.
He said the Joint Task Force Sulu is continuously conducting pursuit operations and intensifying further the focused military operation in order to rescue the remaining hostages of the group. (Sunnex)
