Last of ASG Sipadan kidnappers falls

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Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Angah Adjih

Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila – The last Abu Sayyaf member involved in the Sipadan hostage crisis in 2000 was killed by troops belonging to the Army Special Forces in Talipao, Sulu on March 19, 2019.

Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Angah Adjih was one of the bandits who seized 21 hostages from the dive resort island of Sipadan Malaysia on April 23, 2000. They were taken to an ASG lair in Jolo, Sulu and were eventually rescued following a major offensive by Philippine Army forces.

 Another ASG member named Sarih Edris was also killed in the encounter. Recovered from the encounter site were an M14 rifle, an M16 rifle, M203 grenade launcher, several magazines and ammunition, and personal belongings.

“The long arm of the law has finally caught up with these terrorists and criminals. We assure the people that we will do everything to keep Sulu safe and secure,” said Colonel Antonio Nafarrete, 1101st Infantry Brigade Commander.

“The series of encounters in Sulu is a result of growing support of the civilians toward the AFP who are now tired of the atrocities committed by the ASG in their communities. The Joint Task Force Sulu, together with the local populace, remain steadfast with our mandate of bringing lasting peace in this part of the country,” said Brig. Gen. Divino Rey Pabayo, Jr., Joint Task Force Sulu Commander.

For his part, Lt. Gen. Macairog S. Alberto, the Army Commanding General, pledged all available Army resources to secure the island of Sulu. “We thank the people for their trust and confidence in us. The Army will go after those who would want to harm our people and distract us from bringing peace and development to our countrymen in Sulu and in other parts of the country,” he added.#

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