Sayyaf using hostages as shields

ZAMBOANGA CITY , Philippines  – Troops are having a hard time rescuing kidnap victims because the Abu Sayyaf are using them as human shield.

Armed Forces Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom) chief Lt. Gen. Rustico Guerrero said the  rescue mission has resulted in a number of encounters between troops with police reinforcement and the terrorists.

“You know, it’s very difficult for operating forces on the ground to rescue kidnap victims in jungle environment more so they’re (Abu Sayyaf) using them as human shields,” he said.

Guerrero said troops are  cautious and careful that the hostages will not be put in harm’s way during the rescue operation.

“Our operation with the police is very careful,” he said. “That is why it is taking us a long time to safely recover them.”

Guerrero deplored the Abu Sayyaf’s “barbarism” for using their captives as human shield against advancing troops.