Philippines: Abu Sayyaf wounds four security forces in Sulu November 5

Event

Abu Sayyaf militants wounded four members of security forces, including three soldiers and an army officer, in a clash in Patikul (Sulu province) on Monday, November 5. The clash reportedly took place in an area where the militants are holding hostages. Similar clashes between Abu Sayyaf militants and security forces are possible in Sulu province in the near term.

Context

Abu Sayyaf is a jihadist militant group, affiliated with the Islamic State (IS), that is active in the southwestern Philippines. It is notorious for kidnapping people for ransom, especially in southwestern Mindanao and in the Sulu Archipelago.

Advice

Individuals in Philippines, and particularly those in Sulu province, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, remain vigilant for militant activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.