Philippines army says 5 Abu Sayyaf killed in Sulu clash

By Hader Glang

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines

Philippine troops have killed at least five members of an al-Qaeda-linked militant group amid ongoing operations in the troubled southern island province of Sulu, according to the military Tuesday.

Maj. Gen. Mayoralgo dela Cruz, chief of Western Mindanao Command, told reporters in Zamboanga City that marines encountered around 40 Abu Sayyaf fighters in the jungles of Liang village, Patikul town, at around 8.10 a.m. (0010GMT).

"Marine soldiers under Lieutenant Colonel Wilfredo Manalang hit a large group of bandits," dela Cruz said. "Only one body has been recovered, but we believe there were four other casualties based on the description of the assault."

He added that seven assault rifles of various calibers, ammunition, two motorcycles and other items were recovered.

"This is a continuing operation aimed at the defeat of the Abu Sayyaf and also to safely rescue all their kidnap victims,” he said, adding that no soldiers were harmed in the encounter.

Col. Alan Arrojado, chief of Joint Task Group Sulu, confirmed the firefight was triggered when marines launched an assault on the fighters, who retreated while dragging along their injured companions – with the exception of one slain member who was left behind.

He said in a text message that the group, headed by Ninok Sapari, could be the one engaged by troops Sunday.

Since the military offensive was launched last week upon orders from President Benigno Aquino III, more than 30 Abu Sayyaf members have been killed and 16 others injured, according to the military.

The Abu Sayyaf is listed as a terrorist organization by the Philippine and U.S. governments.

The group is believed to still be holding captives including two Canadians, a Norwegian and a Filipina as well as other foreigners.

Since 1991, the Abu Sayyaf -- armed with mostly improvised explosive devices, mortars and automatic rifles -- has carried out bombings, kidnappings, assassinations and extortions in a self-determined fight for an independent Islamic province in the Philippines.

It is notorious for beheading victims after ransoms have failed to be paid for their release.