Abu Sayyaf tagged in Sulu bombing

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – The military yesterday identified two suspects in the bombing of a karaoke bar in Jolo, Sulu on Thursday night.

Abu Sayyaf bandits Namil Ahajari, alias Gapas, and Roger Saji were behind the attack, said Brig. Gen. Alan Arrojado, commander of Joint Task Group Sulu, citing intelligence reports.

No one was reported hurt, but the blast damaged the bar owned by former Talipao vice mayor Mijan Hasim.

Arrojado said the attack was part of the diversionary tactic of the group led by Radullan Sahiron amid intensified military operations against the bandits in Patikul and Talipao towns.

He said intelligence reports also showed the bandits are targeting the areas frequented by military personnel such as Barangay Kakuyagan and Serrantes street in downtown Jolo.

He said the troops have been alerted on possible attacks of the Abu Sayyaf in retaliation for the military offensive.