Philippine security forces kill Abu Sayyaf leader Latip in Sulu

An Abu Sayyaf Group leader, Sihata Latip, was killed in a shootout with Philippine security forces in Parang town, Sulu province Saturday afternoon.

According to Joint Task Group Sulu commander, Col. Alan Arrojado, Latip was killed at around 4:45pm in Bgy Duyan Kaha when he resisted arrest and tried to shoot it out with the combined police and military force.

Unfortunately, a soldier was also killed in the short but sharp gunfight, with another wounded.

Latip was allegedly involved in the abduction of foreign nationals and in a series of violent attacks against government forces.

Armed Forces Chief Gen Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr., meanwhile, has commended the troops involved in the action. — DVM, GMA News