Abu Sayyaf’s landmine injures 10 in Basilan

MANILA, Philippines (Updated) – The Abu Sayyaf Group on Thursday morning, August 21, attacked government troops in Basilan province of southern Mindanao, wounding at least 9 soldiers and one militia.

“They were securing government projects when their vehicle was hit by a landmine at 9:45 am. A firefight followed,” said Lieutenant Colonel John Paolo Perez, commander of the 18th Infantry Battalion.

The Alpha Company of the Philippine Army was securing road projects under Pamana, the government’s peace and development intervention in conflict areas. It happened in the border of Tipo Tipo and Ungakaya Pukan towns. 

The vehicle was destroyed and the explosion carved a hole up to 5 feet deep and 1.5 meters in diameter, said Perez

Perez said the Abu Sayyaf is retaliating because of the military’s intensified operations against them. He said the rebel group lost several commanders and a number of members in June and July.

“We think this is to retaliate and at the same time harrass government projects,” Perez said. 

The wounded troops were brought to Camp Navarro Hospital in Zamboanga City for  treatment.

Perez said the incident is believed to be perpetrated by ASG under Furuji Indama, alias Abu Dujana. Up to 15 rebels were involved in the attack. – Rappler.com