Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 27) — After eight months in captivity, three more Malaysians break free from the clutches of a terror group operating in Mindanao.
According to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday, “days of unrelenting massive search and rescue operations” by land, sea and air led to the rescue of boat crew members Mohammad Jumadil Rahim, Mohammad Ridzuan Bin Ismail and Fandy Bin Bakran in Sulu last night.
The latest rescue comes on the heels of the successful operation last Thursday which also led to the release of two Malaysians.
The Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom) said troops were able to track down the bandits following the lead and information gathered from previously rescued boat crew members Tayudin Anjut and Abdurahim Bin Sumas.
The intense pursuit operations pressed the bandits to leave the Malaysians behind while government forces were pursuing them, the Wesmincom said in a statement.
“We will continue to exert all means to rescue all the kidnap victims that are still being held captive by these bandits,” said Col. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the joint task force.
After the rescue, the Malaysians were immediately brought to a nearby hospital for checkup and treatment.
The five Malaysians were kidnapped by the terror group last July at the vicinity of Dent Haven, Tambisan, Lahad Datu, Sabah.
