3 soldiers hurt in Basilan clash

COTABATO CITY, Philippines — Three soldiers were wounded when gunmen fired assault rifles and launched grenade projectiles at an Army detachment in Barangay Campo Uno, Lamitan City, on Wednesday, August 6.

Officials from the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region and the Western Mindanao Command said Thursday that the wounded soldiers belong to the Army’s 18th Infantry Battalion, which covers Lamitan City and nearby towns.

Local officials said the gunmen approached the detachment from two directions and opened fire.

Soldiers inside the base returned fire, preventing the attackers from closing in. A corporal and two privates stationed at the roadside base were wounded in the ensuing gunfight.

The attackers fled after sensing the arrival of Army and police reinforcements, supported by volunteer community watchmen.

Residents said the armed men are extortionists whose movements have been restricted after Lamitan officials and the 18th IB set up more Army outposts to protect local traders from harassment.

Lamitan City Mayor Roderick Furigay, who chairs the city’s Peace and Order Council, condemned the attack, which caused panic in Barangay Campo Uno.

He also offered a cash reward to anyone who could help authorities identify the perpetrators for prosecution.