(Eagle News) — One of the two remaining Abu Sayyaf members who figured in a clash with government troops in Bohol on April 11 has been killed.
“Combined AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) and PNP (Philippine National Police) troops encountered today the last two remaining lawless elements who entered Bohol early in April this year,” a joint statement by the AFP and PNP said.
The encounter reportedly took place in Barangay Kahayag, Calape, Bohol at 12:30 p.m.
“One of them was killed, and the other, though reportedly wounded, was able to elude arrest and run away,” the statement said, without giving names.
Authorities said an M16 rifle was seized from the slain Abu Sayyaf member, while his companion was holding a 45 cal. pistol.
They said the escaped Abu Sayyaf member was now the subject of manhunt operations.
“Military and police authorities are confident that the last remaining LE (lawless element) will be arrested soon,” the statement said.
Ten—six members from the Abu Sayyaf side and four from the government side—were killed after they clashed in Inabanga, Bohol on April 11.
An Abu Sayyaf subleader, Muammar Askali, was among those killed during the firefight.
Authorities said the Abu Sayyaf members had gone to Bohol to execute kidnapping plans in time for the long holiday.