3 more Abu Sayyaf killed in Sulu ops: military

Three more members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) were killed as military troops continued its operations against the terrorists in Sulu, military officials said Wednesday.

Troops of the Marine Special Operations Group (MARSOG) engaged in a 20-minute firefight with the ASG under sub-leader Alhabsy Misaya on Tuesday, officials said.

"Among those Abu Sayyaf members killed were Karra Kinod, Asbiali Ijiram, Bari Rabahand Hassan Angkong, all of whom have standing warrants of arrest," an advisory from the Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom) read.

Government forces were also able to capture 2 grenade rifles; 145 rounds of 7.62 live ammunition; 12 rounds of 5.56 live ammunition; six assorted suspenders with magazine pouch; and, assorted camouflage and digital uniforms.

“Military operations are currently being intensified to contain the Abu Sayyaf Group and facilitate the possible rescue of hostages in the hinterlands of Sulu,” Major General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., commander of Wesmincom, said.

A Naval blockade and maritime security patrols have been placed off the coasts of Capual Island as government troops continue to scour the area for Abu Sayyaf members who escaped the latest assault, officials said. - ABC-CBN