Boy hurt in Sulu attack

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines - A three-year-old boy was wounded when Abu Sayyaf bandits attacked a village Wednesday afternoon in Patikul, Sulu, according to security official.

The military said the attack triggered a firefight when village watchmen under the Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team (BPAT) retaliated.

Brig. Gen. Alan Arrojado, commander of the Joint Task Group Sulu (JTGS), said the Abu Sayyaf group under sub-leader Ninok Sapari staged the harassment at Barangay Sandah, Patikul about 2:30 p.m.

He said the BPAT led by Barangay Chairman Jainulla Jawari retaliated against the attackers who escaped to the mountains. The groups exchanged gunfire which lasted for 15 minutes.

The victim, who was slightly hit on the forehead, was identified as Gasfer Sagudan. He was brought to the headquarters of the Charlie Company of the 35th Infantry Battalion for treatment.

The military said they believe that the Abu Sayyaf group attacked the village for providing support to ongoing military operation.