Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 6) — Government troops rescued an Indonesian kidnap victim from Abu Sayyaf militants in Sulu Friday afternoon.
A report from Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom) Saturday said troops from the Philippine Marine Ready Fleet Sulu engaged in a gunfight with members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) to rescue Heri Ardiansyah and Hariadin.
Three ASG militants and the captives tried to escape pursuing troops in Simisa Island in Banguingui by swimming towards Bangalao Island, however, they were spotted by roving sea patrols.
Hariadin died from drowing, while the three ASG members died in the encounter.
Several high-powered firearms and other ammo were also seized.
Both Indonesians were brought to the headquarters of the Western Mindanao Command in Camp Navarro.
Government troops also pursued ASG members still on Simisa Island.
