A SUSPECTED Abu Sayyaf bandit was killed, while two others were arrested in an anti-drug operation in the province of Tawi-Tawi, an official said Wednesday, June 10.
Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Regional Director Emerson Margate identified the slain Abu Sayyaf bandit as Bensal Aradi.
Margate said arrested as Margate's companions were Mahmud Ainal, 42, and Najil Sangkula, 35.
Margate said that Aradi was killed in a shootout during an anti-drug operation around 4:30 p.m. Sunday, June 7, in the village of Tubig Basag, Bongao, Tawi-Tawi.
Margate said the shootout ensued as Aradi opened fire, prompting the approaching lawmen to return fire, killing the Abu Sayyaf member instantaneously.
He said Ainal of Sangkula, who was with Aradi during the buy-bust operation, was arrested by joint operatives of PDEA, police and military.
Margate said the joint operatives have recovered some 50 grams of substance believed to be shabu with an estimated market value of P340,000, one caliber .45 pistol with live ammunition, drug paraphernalia and marked money.
He said charges for violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 will be filed against the arrested suspects. (SunStar Zamboanga)