2 Marines wounded in Sulu clash

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines - At least two Marines were wounded in a clash Sunday with unidentified gunmen in the southern Philippine island of Pangutaran off Sulu province. Authorities did not give any statement about the fighting and spokesmen and security officials ignored calls by journalists who were verifying the report. The names of the two Marines who suffered gunshot wounds in the firefight on the island, a known hideout of pirates and Abu Sayyaf militants, were unavailable. Sulu Gov. Sakur Tan said the island's leaders sought the help of the military to run after the gangs who were behind extortion activities and attacks on fishermen and ferries at sea. "There is an operation in Pangutaran and we are supporting the ongoing military and police operation aimed at neutralizing lawless elements," Tan told GMANews.TV. Police said it would deploy more forces on the island to secure civilians and protect them from possible attacks by lawless groups. Senior Superintendent Julasirim Kasim vowed to “enforce law and order on the island." Kasim said he would replace the current police chief on the island. The fighting occurred as politicians running for the August 11 elections in the Muslim autonomous region were campaigning. Sulu is one of five provinces that comprise the autonomous region. Piracy is rampant in Sulu Sea where trawlers and ferries had been attacked in the past by gunmen. - Al Jacinto