3 killed, 4 hurt in Basilan clash
MANILA, Philippines - Three members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) were killed and 4 soldiers were hurt during a clash between Scout Rangers and Abu Sayyaf bandits in Sumisip, Basilan, Tuesday morning, September 5.
Capt Alberto Caber, spokesman of the Army's 1st infantry division, said a platoon from the 3rd Scout Ranger battalion was conducting security operations in Sitio Baag, Barangay Guiong when they encountered about 100 ASG men.
Firefight started at around 11:05 am and lasted for about two hours.
Maj Gen Ricardo Rainier Cruz III, commanding general of the Army's 1st infantry division, has ordered his men to intensify pursuit operations against the ASG members.
Sumisip has been the site of gun battles between the Army and the Abu Sayyaf this year. The town hosts huge rubber plantations which Army officers said the Abu Sayyaf wants to control. - Rappler.com
