By Martin A. Sadongdong
Five members of the Abu Sayyaf Group, including a sub-leader, have surrendered to the military as intensified counter-terrorism efforts by the government continue, the Armed Forces of the Philippines bared yesterday.
The military identified them as Berham Lutian, alias “Vietnam,” sub-leader; Abdulsalam Ajul, alias “Rambo;” Simal Sali, Alvin Alibasa, and Ahmajir Ahmad, alias “Abu Darda.”
Rear Admiral Rene Medina, commander of the Armed Forces Western Mindanao Naval Forces, said Lutian and company surrendered to members of the Philippine Marine Ready Force Sulu last Thursday in Kalingalan Caluang, Sulu.
Medina said high-powered firearms and various ammunition were seized from them.
Later that day, Ahmad surrendered to the military.
Medina said Ahmad was fetched in Barangay Ipil, Maimbung, Sulu and brought to the military headquarters where he yielded an M16A1 rifle.
Medina said the five surrenderers were turned over to the higher authorities while Kalingalan Caluang Municipal Mayor Peping Halum and military officers rewarded them with sacks of rice and assorted groceries.
“The AFP will continue its stand to deny and end the presence of lawless terrorist groups in the country,” Medina said.
