A MEMBER of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) voluntarily surrendered to government forces in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi.
The ASG member was identified as Al-Habi Jundam also known as Victor Jundam under the group of Sulu-based ASG sub-leader Hairullah Asbang.
Reports reaching Camp Aguinaldo showed the ASG surrendered in Bgy. Sanga-Sanga, Bongao, through the joint intelligence efforts of the 2nd Marine Brigade and 4th Marine Brigade.
Jundam also yielded an M1 Garand rifle and four rounds of live ammunition to the troops.
Accordingly, Jundam was a member of the kidnap-for-ransom group which was involved in a series of encounters against military troops in Sulu.
He was also involved in the kidnapping of businessman John Hablo in October 2013; a certain Jin Hua Chen and Yahong Chen in May 2014; and Italian priest Rolando del Torchio in October 2015.
The 2nd Marine Brigade is now conducting a custodial debriefing and proper disposition of the former ASG member.
AFP Chief of Staff, General Gilbert Gapay lauded the members of the 2nd and 4th Marine Brigades for their significant accomplishments in pressuring ASG members to surrender to the government fold.
“The AFP leadership acknowledges our soldiers’ dedication and perseverance in defeating the Abu Sayyaf Group and its affiliate organizations. We also attribute our successes to the strong support of the national and local governments as well as the active cooperation among concerned agencies,” Gapay said.
“With the help of all stakeholders, we will sustain our momentum against the terrorist groups to allow the continuous and unhampered peace and development in Mindanao,” he added.
The military previously reported that a total of 99 ASG members and supporters have surrendered since January 1 to November 4.
During the period, 65 bandits were killed and 11 were apprehended during focused military operations. Meanwhile, 122 high-powered and low-powered firearms were either seized or surrendered during the period.
Last October 26, Colonel Arturo Rojas, the Brigade Commander of 2nd Marine Brigade presented a total of 90 assorted loose firearms to Lieutenant General Corleto Vinluan Jr., Commander of Western Mindanao Command (WESMINCOM) at the Marine Barracks Domingo Deluna in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi.
