SEVEN Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) kidnappers including the presumed emir of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria ((ISIS) in the Philippines were killed in an operation conducted by troops of Joint Task Force Sulu, before dawn at the open waters of Sulu sea near Sulare Island, Parang Sulu.
This was confirmed by Lt. Jerrica Angela A. Manongdo, spokesperson of JTF Sulu.
Two of the fatalities were identified as Madsmar Sawadjaan, brother of infamous bomber Mundi Sawadjaan and Mannul Sawadjaan alias Abu Amara who was declared to be the replacement of deceased ASG leader Hajan Sawadjaan as emir.
The identities of the five other fatalities were not yet available as of press time.
Reports reaching Camp Aguinaldo showed the operation was conducted at around 2:15 a.m.
Accordingly, troops of Joint Task Force – Sulu intercepted and killed the seven Abu Sayyaf Group kidnappers aboard a twin engine speed boat at the open waters of Sulu sea near Sulare Island, Parang, Sulu.
The operation was orchestrated by JTF –Sulu Commander MGen. William N. Gonzales.
The troops used the Augusta Attack Helicopter of the Philippine Air Force and the Multi Special Forces on board.
Retrieval operations of the speed boat and cadavers of ASG member are currently ongoing.
