KOTA KINABALU, SABAH – Philippine security forces have reportedly gunned downed terror group Abu Sayyaf’s number 2, Apo Mike, in the country’s Southern region on Saturday evening (March 20).
The sub-commander whose real name is Majan Sahidjuan was said to have been killed at Barangay Kalupag Island at Languyan in Tawi-Tawi, near Sabah.
Majan was responsible for masterminding a series of kidnappings on Sabah’s East Coast here including Sarawakians in Semporna back in 2016.
His latest abduction, three Indonesian fishermen, taken from Sabah in Tambisan Island, Lahad Datu, early last year were rescued after Apo and his henchmen faced boat problems.
Philippine media said Majan was beached on the island after his boat sunk while two of his men fled with the hostages on another also said to be leaking.
Authorities managed to intercept the escaping boat and arrested Suhud Salasim @ Ben Wagas, Majan’s foot soldier, subsequently rescuing the hostage trio.
Troops of the Marine Battalion Landing Team-6 under Lt Col Venjie Pendon were responding to a distress call over the presence of armed men on Barangay Kalupag Island.
Lt Gen Corleto Vinluan Jr, commander of Western Mindanao Command, said the group opened fire at security forces as they approached the island.
In retaliation a firefight ensued which ended along with Majan’s life.
Vinluan Jr said security forces would remain on high alert for the remaining Abu Sayyaf members and will step up operations to capture them.
Meanwhile, Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Hazani Ghazali when contacted confirmed the news.
“Apo Mike is on the list of 21 men wanted for Kidnap For Ransom crimes active in the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESSZONE),” he said.
