5 Killed, 20 Wounded in Ongoing Basilan Clash

Two soldiers were killed while another 10 were wounded following a two-day operation against Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits in Al Barka, Basilan which also resulted in the death of three brigands and wounding of 10 others.

Western Mindanao Command spokesperson Major Filemon Tan said they were still verifying the death of the three ASG members as these brigands were seen to fall during the gunbattle.

“They were not seen standing up, so we are determining on whether they were killed, the battle is still ongoing as of this moment,” Tan said in Filipino.

He added that operations are still ongoing as the ASGs have fled into different barangays in the area.

Fighting this Tuesday erupted 5 a.m. as government units managed to close in among the fleeing bandits.

Units involved in the operation include Rangers, Marines, Maritime Special Operations Group and armored units in Basilan. (PNA) RMA/PFN