THE Malaysian national who was rescued on April 4 by government forces following an encounter with several members of the Abu Sayyaf Group in the hinterlands of Sulu has died.

Armed Forces of the Philippines Western Mindanao Command spokesperson Colonel Gerry Besana said Jari Bin Abdullah passed away on April 9 while being treated at the West Metro Medical Center in Zamboanga City.

Abdullah was rescued by personnel of the Marine Battalion Landing Team 3 following a firefight with Abu Sayyaf members led by Najir Arik.

Abdullah tried to escape at the height of the firefight but Abu Sayyaf bandits fired at him.

Besana said the Malaysian national sustained critical gunshot wounds in his body, causing his death.

Abdullah’s family witnessed his death, as they signed a waiver that allowed doctors to remove his life support, added Besana.

“We extend our heartfelt sympathy to the families of Abdullah. Our troops are exhausting all efforts to defeat the Abu Sayyaf and bring justice to the victims of terror,” said Lieutenant General Arnel Dela Vega, Western Mindanao Command chief.

Abdullah was among the three fishermen abducted by the Abu Sayyaf on December 6, 2018.

The other kidnap victims were Heri Ardiansyah and Hariadin who, according to the military, were rescued on April 5 during a pursuit operation against the bandits in the waters off Simusa Island.

The military said Ardiansyah was turned over to the Indonesian embassy in Manila, while Hariadin, who drowned in a escape try, was also sent to the embassy. (SunStar Philippines)