Bandits killed in Basilan

ZAMBOANGA CITY -- At least five suspected Abu Sayyaf members were killed during a heavy fire fight yesterday morning in the jungles of Basilan, the military said.

Marine Major Ramon N. David Hontiveros, spokesman of the Western Mindanao Command, said troopers engaged the group of Ridwan Musa in Sitio Kemi in Langgong, Tuburan town.

"The capability of terrorists to commit further atrocities on the island of Basilan was greatly reduced today [yesterday]," he said, adding government soldiers immediately neutralized five bandits, including Musa.

"The fire fight lasted for 30 minutes, during which [Musa’s] group suffered five dead, him included, and an undetermined number of wounded," he added.

Mr. Hontiveros said one soldier was wounded. The military said Musa has been involved in criminal activities in the island-province. -- DTW

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Bandits killed in Basilan