Abu slain, high-powered firearms and shabu seized by troops in Basilan

Zamboanga City - In the combat operation launched by the troops of the Joint Task Force Basilan, a member of the Abu Sayyaf Group was killed and 2 high-powered firearms were seized in Basilan on July 7.

A heavy gun battle ensued between the elements of the 18th Infantry Battalion and the Abu Sayyaf members led by Nawapi Abdulsaid, a.k.a. Khatan, in Barangay Bohe Pahu, Ungkaya Pukan, Basilan at around 6:45am of July 7.

Two high-powered firearms (1 M79 rifle and 1 carbine rifle), shabu, and some drug paraphernalia were recovered from the area of encounter after the firefight.

“The troops were conducting reconnaissance in response to the reported presence of Abu Sayyaf members in the area of engagement. Upon sensing the movement of the troops, the bandits initiated the armed confrontation,” said Colonel Juvymax Uy, Commander of the Joint Task Force Basilan.

“The recovered shabu and drug paraphernalia are added evidence that these bandits are using drugs regularly.”

Also recovered from the encounter area was an unidentified body of one of the bandits.

“It is sad to report that 4 of our soldiers were wounded in this intense firefight with the Abu Sayyaf,” said Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

“We will, however, continue pursuing these bandits who are at the same time drug addicts until we all get them."

At 7:25am, responding troops of the 18IB proceeded to the encounter site and extricated the 4 wounded soldiers, who were promptly airlifted to Zamboanga City for immediate medical attention.

As of press time, troops are still on pursuit operation on the fleeing Abu Sayyaf bandits.(PR/posted by Becky D. de Asis-The Redline News)