AFP, PNP on full alert in Mindanao

PHILIPPINE security forces in western Mindanao will be on full alert this week as the holy Islam month of Ramadan draws to a close, especially with the prospect of retaliatory attacks from the Abu Sayyaf.

The police will concentrate on security around mosques while the military will help look out for other threats.

The PNP asked the Muslim community for understanding for the full alert status, saying it is meant to make sure the bandits cannot sow violence at this time.

Chief Superintendent Angelo Sumlao, head of the directorate for integrated police operations in Western Mindanao, said their priority is to protect civilians in the volatile region.

On Sunday, PNP chief Director General Jesus Verzosa placed police forces in Western Mindanao on full alert after police killed three Abu Sayyaf militants in a clash in Sulu.

Gafur Jumdail, younger brother of Abu Sayyaf leader Gumbahali Jumdail a.k.a. Dr. Abu, and two of his men were killed late Saturday near Maimbung town in Jolo. (PIA-Bohol)

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