Remains of Abu bandit in sea clash recovered

ZAMBOANGA CITY , Philippines — The military recovered on Saturday the remains of one of seven Abu Sayyaf bandits killed in a recent encounter in the waters off Sulu.

The cadaver was recovered by members of the Special Forces with the help of local fishermen in Barangay Kangalan, Tapul Island, according to Lt. Jerrica Angela Manongdo, spokesperson for Joint Task Force Sulu (JTFS).

The cadaver, identified as Dave Sawadjaan, was found floating 20 kilometers away from Sulare Island where the sea encounter occurred on Tuesday.

Former Abu Sayyaf bandits who surrendered to authorities confirmed the cadaver was Sawadjaan, according to Lt. Col. Alaric Avelino delos Santos, spokesman for the Western Mindanao Command.

Citing intelligence reports, Delos Santos said Sawadjaan was a nephew of Abu Sayyaf leader Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan and cousin of Mundi Sawadjaan, alleged mastermind of the recent twin suicide bombings in Jolo.

The bandits were reportedly out to launch  terror and kidnapping activities in Northern Mindanao, according to JTFS chief Maj. Gen. William Gonzales.

After receiving information about the bandits’ mission, the military on Tuesday deployed an attack helicopter and multi-purpose attack craft with snipers from the Scout Ranger and Special Forces.

The joint forces launched the assault at past 2 a.m., killing seven bandits and sinking their boat.

Gonzales expressed belief that the remains of six other bandits would soon be recovered.

He identified two of the seven slain bandits as Madsmar Sawadjaan, brother of Mundi, and Mannul Sawadjaan, alias Abu Amara, grandson and successor of Hatib Hajan.