AN ABU Sayyaf Group (ASG) leader wounded in an encounter with the military in Tawi-Tawi on Saturday, March 20, 2021, had died while the remaining Indonesian kidnap victim has been rescued.
Khairuldin Bin Yai Kii, 15, was rescued at around 6:30 a.m. Sunday, March 21, 2021, on Kalupag Island, Languyan, according to Lieutenant General Corleto Vinluan Jr., Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) commander.
"Currently, the rescued Indo kidnap victim is at the headquarters of the 2nd Marine Brigade for medical procedure and debriefing,” Vinluan said.
The young hostage was rescued within three days of the rescue of three of his companions.
Five Indonesian fishermen were kidnapped by the Abu Sayyaf bandits on January 16, 2020 in the waters between Tambisan and Kuala Meruap, Lahad Datu, Sabah. One was killed.
Meanwhile, Majan Sahidjuan, also known as Apo Mike, died from blood loss Saturday evening, March 20.
Sahidjuan was severely wounded during a gunfight between troops and ASG members in Barangay Kalupag Island, Languyan, Vinluan said.
Sahidjuan was abandoned by his two comrades, according to Marine Battalion Landing Team-6 commander Lieutenant Colonel Venjie Pendon. (Third Anne Peralta-Malonzo / SunStar Philippines)