FIVE soldiers were injured in two separate clashes that resulted in the capture of an encampment of the Abu Sayyaf bandits in the province of Sulu, the military reported Thursday, October 31.
Major General Corleto Vinluan Jr., Joint Task Force Sulu commander, said five soldiers were injured in the first firefight that took place around 8 a.m. Wednesday, October 30, in Sitio Kan Mindang in the village of Pangdanon, Patikul, Sulu.
He said the firefight ensued as the troops from the Army's 1st Scout Ranger Battalion chanced upon 30 Abu Sayyaf bandits led by Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan while on security operation in Sitio Kan Mindang.
The bandits, who were believed to have sustained casualties, fled as they abandoned their encampment following the 50-minute firefight.
"Our troops have seen lots of bloodstains in the enemy position and in their withdrawal route," he added.
He said the captured encampment can accommodate around 50 people at one time.
The troops recovered from the camp five improvised explosive devices, medical supplies, food supplies, 30 empty gallons, personal belongings, detonating cord, 10 to 15 meters long lead wire, 15 kilos rice, poncho, laminated sacks, one hammock, two backpacks, empty shells of caliber 5.56 millimeter (MM) rifle 7.62-mm ammunition link.
The five soldiers, who were wounded, were taken to the Camp General Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital for treatment.
Vinluan said two other soldiers, also from the 1st Scout Ranger Battalion, were wounded in the second clash that occurred around 4:20 p.m. Wednesday, October 30, when they chanced upon more or less 10 Abu Sayyaf bandits under Mundi Sawadjaan and a certain Abu Yusop in Sitio Kanlimbungan in the village of Tanum, Patikul.
"The casualty on the enemy side is yet to be determined," he said, adding that the firefight lasted for about 20 minutes.
Lieutenant General Cirilito Sobejana, Western Mindanao Command chief, commended the rangers for their dedication to their duties. He made sure that the battle casualties will be given utmost care while undergoing medical treatment. (SunStar Zamboanga)