Philippines: 21 Abu Sayyaf members killed
Three leaders and 18 gunmen of the Abu Sayyaf militant group have been killed in a clash with government troops in the southern Philippines.
Philippine soldiers walk along a highway (Source: AFP)Kuala Lumpur (VNA) - Three leaders and 18 gunmen of the Abu Sayyaf militant group have been killed in a clash with government troops in the southern Philippines.
Lt. Gen. Mayoralgo de la Cruz, chief of the military’s Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom), confirmed the three slain leaders were Mohammad Said, Sairul Asbang, and Abu Latip.
In clashes in Patikul, Sulu province since August 26, 18 militants had been killed and 17 others had been wounded, the officer said.
Mohammad Said’s group was behind the kidnapping of three Westerners and a Filipino woman ub September last year.
The bandits killed two of the Westerners —Canadians John Ridsdel and Robert Hall— after the Canadian government refused to pay ransom for the two men’s freedom.
Filipino Maritess Flor was released without ransom in June this year.-VNA
You should also see
VNA marks 70th anniversary of Dien Bien Phu Victory with various activities
The Vietnam News Agency (VNA) hosted an array of activities to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Dien Bien Phu Victory (May 7, 1954 - 2024).
See more
World
India’s trade deficit with ASEAN widens
India's trade deficit with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has more than doubled since the implementation of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) in 2010.
ASEAN
Forum boosts economic ties among ASEAN, emerging economies, Russia
An economic cooperation forum on fostering ties between ASEAN and emerging economies, and Russia convened in Hanoi on April 12.
Culture - Sports
ASEAN Graphic Arts Competition and Exhibition 2024 to promote friendship
The Department of Fine Arts, Photography and Exhibition under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism will collaborate with relevant agencies to organise the ASEAN Graphic Arts Competition and Exhibition 2024.
ASEAN
Malaysia issues heatwave alert for 14 areas
The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has issued hot weather warnings for 14 areas across the country, particularly in the states of Perlis, Kedah, Kelantan, Sarawak and Sabah.
World
China, Thailand forge alliance for moon exploration
China and Thailand have inked preliminary agreements to collaborate on the peaceful exploration and use of space, as well as on the development of international lunar research stations.
