ASG leader wounded in a clash with govt troops in Basilan

By Michael Vincent D. Cajulao

ZAMBOANGA CITY – A notorious Abu Sayyaf leader wanted for the spate of bombings and kidnappings in Basilan Province was wounded after the military clash with the terrorist group in Basilan on Wednesday.

Col. Nicanor Dolojan of the Philippine Army in the province identified the wounded ASG leader as Nu Hassan Jamiri. Dolojan said they are now tracking Jamiri in the town of Al Barka. “Per intelligence reports, Nur Hassan Jamiri is wounded,”Col. Dolojan said.

The fighting broke in the village of Kabun Pababag, deep within the mountains of Tipo-Tipo municipality, after the military overran an Abu Sayyaf camp. The firefight spread to Al Barka Jamiri and around 50 of his followers fled.

Officials confirmed one casualty on the government’s side.

Meanwhile, a text message allegedly sent by the Abu Sayyaf, threatening to bomb vital installations in the city, has been circulating the past few days according to the city police.

P/Sr. Supt. Edwin de Ocampo, Officer-in-charge of Zamboanga City Police, said text message is just a diversionary tactic being employed by the terrorists to cause the government troops in Basilan to slow down with their operations against ASG in Basilan. De Ocampo pointed that the city is presently not receiving threats.

De Ocampo revealed the message is meant to sow fear to the public as it warns them of series of bombings in the city. However, De Ocampo stressed that they are not taking this lightly. He said proper actions will be taken to keep the public safe.

De Ocampo has ordered the deployment of police personnel in key installations like government offices, gasoline stations, hospitals and others to prevent any untoward incidents. He also called on the public to stay vigilant and be cautious of suspicious people and baggage. (PIA9-ZC)