Security forces killed four suspected Abu Sayyaf Group fighters early Wednesday morning after the military launched offensive operations in Ungkaya Pukan, Basilan.
The clash occurred a day after Marine commandos killed ASG sub-leader Hapidz Abdurahman in Barangay Tambulian, Pata, Sulu.
Col. Gerry Besana, spokesman of the Armed Forces Western Command, said Army troopers attacked a camp of the ASG in Sitio Gipitan, Barangay Bohe Pahu, Ungkaya Pukan.
“A heavy firefight ensued after which the enemies scampered to different direction. Close air support was immediately deployed to go after the fleeing bandits,” said Besana.
The ASG fighters were reportedly under Basilan-based ASG leader Furuji Indama.
During the clearing operations, Besana said four cadavers of the Abu Sayyaf were recovered along with three high-powered firearms – an M16 rifle, an M14 rifle, and an R4.
Besana said soldiers are now scouring the jungles of Ungkaya Pukan and nearby towns to run after the fleeing ASG fighters. Blocking forces were also deployed. (Aaron Recuenco)