3 militiamen killed, 7 hurt in Abu attack in Basilan

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines  – Three government militiamen were killed while seven others were wounded in an ambush by suspected Abu Sayyaf militants in Sumisip, Basilan last Thursday, a military official said.

An Abu Sayyaf member was also killed as members of the Special Cafgu Active Auxiliary (SCAA) fired at their attackers.

Col. Ricardo Visaya, commanding officer of the 104th Army Brigade based in Tabiawan, Isabela City, said SCAA operatives were conducting security patrol in Barangay Tumahubong when the Abu Sayyaf militants attacked them at around 5:45 a.m.

Visaya identified the fatalities as Nulmer Lumbos, Buddo Hatula and Papang Manjapal. The slain Abu Sayyaf was identified as a certain Bakrim.

Bonifacio Masyon, a certain Lot, Pia, Lukman, AhmadIbrahim, Haj, Al Basir and Munap were wounded.

Members of the 4th Scout Ranger Battalion under Lt. Col. Armand Arevalo have launched a pursuit operation against the Abu Sayyaf militants.

“Security operations have been relentless even during this Holy Week to thwart the Abu Sayyaf militants and other lawless groups from taking advantage of the situation,” Visaya said.