Abu Sayyaf Leaders Janjalani, Solaiman Dead

(Manila, Philippines) President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo of the Philippines announced spot promotions for troops involved in last September's firefight death of Abu Sayyaf chieftain Khadaffy Janjalani. Also, receiving spot promotions were troops involved with the killing of No. 2 Abu Sayyaf leader, Abu Solaiman, aka Sulaiman. Both men were wanted for planning and conducting terrorist bombings and kidnappings throughout the Philippines. Thankfully, both are history. Al-Qaeda-linked Abu Sayyaf leader Janjalani was first reported dead in December 2006 on tips from captured members. Remains were located and taken for DNA testing which last week confirmed Janjalani's demise.

No. 2 Abu Sayyaf leader Solaiman was killed on January 16 on the island of Sulu. It's reported that S/Sgt. Raul Suacillo found Solaiman squatting in the woods, relieving himself.

"I waited for him (Solaiman) to finish (relieving himself). So that we will not be compromised, I called him because I want to apprehend him. We even had an eye contact. I told him 'don't make a noise'," said Suacillo.

Suacillo said instead of surrendering, Solaiman ran and chanted "Allahu Akbar (God is great)."

He said he opened fire at Solaiman to stop him from shouting that could warn other Abu Sayyaf members.

The Abu Sayyaf camp was in a heavily-wooded area so government troops had the advantage of surprise. I'm sure Solaiman was surprised and also deserving of some theological demerits for yelling Allahu Akbar while pinching a loaf.

In summary, two leaders of Abu Sayyaf are dead and two tipsters will each be collecting $5 million reward money. All the while, the Filipino government continues its ramped up assault on the terrorist group with notable successes.

Posted by: Mike Pechar at 11:12 AM | Comments (3) | Add Comment
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