Jolo, Sulu (PIA) — An Abu Sayyaf Group sub-leader who carries a P2-million bounty for his capture was arrested by Marine troops in the province of Sulu on Wednesday.

Joint Task Force Comet Commander Maj Gen Juancho M Sabban identified the bandit as Sakirin Andalan Sali alias Kirih-Kirih, 44, a resident of Brgy Gagguil, Panglima Estino.

The Marine operatives apprehended Sali, who was positively identified by his former comrade under ASG Commander Galib Andang alias Robot, at 9:45 AM at Brgy Walled City, Jolo municipality. He has a standing arrest warrant for multiple murders with frustrated murder.

Maj Gen Sabban said that the arrest is the result of the government’s continuous manhunt operations on the remaining leaders and members of the bandit group.

“While concerted efforts are given to development projects, the chase and punitive actions against terrorist ASG have never been relegated. The military has always been relentless in its efforts to deliver the wheels of justice,” he said.

With the capture of Sali, he added, the families of ASG victims will finally get the justice they fully deserve.

“One captured terrorist, one notch lower for the Abu Sayaff. Soon, other ASG terrorists responsible for violence and terrorism will also fall into the hands of the law. They shall be pursued until they fall,” the military chief stressed.

Meanwhile, he lauded the Marine troops for the recent accomplishment. The operation was jointly conducted by the combined intelligence operatives under this Command: 11th Marine Battalion Landing Team under the 2nd Marine Brigade; 5th and 6th MBLTs under the 3rd Marine Brigade; personnel of Jolo Internal Defense Force (JIDF); and the Marine Area Research Coordinating Center (MARCC).

“Every successful military operation shall serve as an added motivation for every soldier to continuously bring about the long cherished dream of peace and prosperity,” he said.(PIA-BASULTA)