Abu Sayyaf sub-commander killed in Basilan

MANILA, Philippines — A sub-commander of the Abu Sayyaf was killed in an encounter in Basilan province Saturday, a radio report said. Bombo Radyo reported that Task Force Trilium spokesman Capt. Neil Estrella identified the slain bandit leader as Alimari Alamirul, who operates under the command of Puruji Indama. Estrella said Alamirul was linked to a series of kidnapping incidents in the Zamboanga Peninsula, including that of freed Sri Lankan peace worker Omar Jaleel. The report said Alamirul's remains are in military custody, even as fighting in the area continued. The Air Force has sent aircraft to support ground troops, the report said. - GMANews.TV