RP steps up operations against rebels

RP steps up operations against rebels

PHILIPPINES: The Philippine Army said on Friday it had stepped up
operations in case of attacks in retaliation for the killing of a
senior leader of the Moro extremist Abu Sayyaf group a day
earlier.

Southern military chief Lt. Gen. Roy Kyamco meanwhile visited
the Abu Sayyaf stronghold of Basilan island to award soldiers who
killed the al-Qaeda-linked group's number three leader, Hamsiraji
Sali, and five other members on Thursday.

Basilan army chief Col. Raymundo Ferrer said the army had
boosted security as Abu Sayyaf supporters could want to avenge
the death of their leader.

"We have intensified our territorial defense system around
Basilan," Ferrer said.

In the past the Abu Sayyaf have staged bombings and
kidnappings after clashes with the military both as a show of
strength and in retaliation for government pursuit of their
forces.

Sali, his brother Tahir and four other Abu Sayyaf members were
killed in a clash with elite Scout Ranger forces on the outskirts
of the Basilan capital of Isabela. -- AFP