Philippines: Military clash with Abu Sayyaf militants in Sulu province May 27

Event

A military spokesman announced the death of at least one Abu Sayyaf militant in a security operation in Sulu province on Monday, May 27. Philippine troops reportedly carried out a security operation in Patikul, during which at least four other militants were wounded.

Similar clashes are likely in the Sulu Archipelago over the near term.

Context

Abu Sayyaf is an Islamic State (IS)-affiliated jihadist militant group operating primarily in the southern Philippines. The group's criminal and terrorist activities include kidnappings, bombings, and beheadings in western Mindanao.

Advice

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