An Abu Sayyaf leader who figured in a clash with government troops in Inabanga, Bohol has been killed, a police official said Wednesday.
Senior Supt. Jonathan Cabal, head of the Central Visayas police office’s intelligence division, confirmed the death of Abu Sayyaf leader Muamar Askali, alias Abu Rami.
No other details were immediately available about Rami’s death.
Rami’s group on Tuesday exchanged gunfire with government troops in Inabanga, far from the terrorists’ jungle bases in Mindanao.
At least 3 soldiers, 1 policeman and 6 Abu Sayyaf fighters were killed in the clash.
Capt. Jojo Mascariñas, spokesperson of the Army’s 302nd Brigade, identified the casualties from the government’s side as:
– 2nd Lieutenant Espelito Saldua, Jr.;
– Corporal Meljun Cajaban ;
– Sergeant John Dexter Duero; and
– PO2 Rey Anthony Nazareno.
The encounter came days after the US government warned that gunmen might carry out kidnappings in Central Visayas.
This story first appeared on ABS-CBN News and is re-published with permission.
