Security forces slay alleged Abu Sayyaf member in Basilan

Philippine security forces killed an alleged Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) member based in Basilan on Friday.

In a statement, West Mindanao Command chief Lieutenant General Carleto Vinluan Jr. said Poloy Hallang, a.k.a. Commander Heck, was slain in an operation involving the 4th Special Forces Battalion, 53rd and 54th Special Action Company of the PNP Special Action Force, 2nd Basilan Province Mobile Force Company, and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group Basilan.

"Commander Heck" was with Amil Hallang and Ronie Hallang when security forces attempted to serve a warrant of arrest in Barangay Baungis, Lantawan, Basilan.

“The target personalities resisted arrest and initiated gunfire against the operating troops. A short exchange of fire ensued, leading to the neutralization of Commander Heck,” said Lt. Col. Alex Ampati, commanding officer of the 4SFB.

Two PNP SAF members were wounded during the operation but were in stable condition.

An M16 rifle and assorted ammunition were recovered from the scene.

Poloy Hallang was part on the ASG Watchlist as of the end of 2020, according to Joint Task Force Basilan Commander Brig. Gen. Domingo Gobway.

He had a criminal murder case from June 8, 2010.

He also participated in an armed engagement with the 14th Special Forces Company in the municipality of Lantawan in 2014 which resulted in the death of Cpt. Mark Zember Gamboa, Gobway said.

Commander Heck was also responsible for the killing of a certain Noning Jainal of Lantawan.

Hallang's body and the items recovered were in police custody for proper disposition. — DVM, GMA News