Military operations have continued to intensify against armed lawless elements.

Sulu, Philippines – Thanks to the intensified conduct of focused military operations by the Joint Task Force Sulu, on 7 February 2017, five members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) under the command of one sub-leader Alhabsy Misaya were killed while one was captured.

Marine Special Operations Group (MARSOG) troops in Sitio Talok-talok, Barangay Capual, Municipality of Sulu were engaged in a 20-minute firefight with members of the ASG led by Misaya. Misaya is a sub-leader of the ASG based in Indanan, Sulu with around 40 men under his command.

When the smoke cleared, five ASG members were dead, while one was held captive. No casualties were reported for government troops. Aside from the reported casualties, eight high-powered firearms, composed of four M16 armalites and four M14 rifles, were seized from the terrorists.

Following the encounter, available ground forces proceeded to the area for reinforcement and pursuit. Units from the Philippine Navy created a blockade along the waters of Capual Island to possibly intercept any fleeing ASG members.

Joint Task Force Sulu continuously conducts clearing and pursuit operations in the area of Capual Island in the hopes of rescuing ASG kidnap victims.

Military operations have continued to intensify against the ASG in Sulu. This is in line with President Duterte’s no let-up campaign against atrocities done by terrorist groups in the area, which include kidnapping and other acts of violence.