Bandit killed in clash

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – A suspected Abu Sayyaf bandit was killed in an encounter with government security forces in Patikul, Sulu at dawn yesterday.

The fatality was reportedly among a group of armed men who ambushed and killed two Army troopers on Sunday in Barangay Latih, according to Brig. Gen. Alan Arrojado, chief of the Joint Task Group Sulu.

Troopers from the Army’s 35th Infantry Battalion led by Lt. Col. Mars Gayat were pursuing the assailants of the two soldiers when they clashed with at least 20 bandits in Barangay Langhub at past 5 a.m.

He said the firefight lasted 20 minutes and resulted in the wounding of several bandits who escaped, leaving behind their slain comrade.

The fatality was identified as a certain Isran, said to be a follower of Abu Sayyaf spokesman Muammar Askali, alias Abu Ramy.