Photograph of dead Abu Sayyaf leader released

Abu Rami. RELEASED PHOTO

SANDAKAN–A photograph of dead Abu Sayyaf leader Abu Rami was released by Philippines security forces, confirming that he was killed in Bohol, central Philippines.

Abu Rami – the alias of Muamar Askali –  was among the Abu Sayyaf gunmen who were high on the wanted list in Malaysia and Philippines

The photograph also showed an IS flag pinned on his chest.

Philippine security forces have killed the “media-savvy” Abu Sayyaf leader who appeared in several videos of hostage executions.

He was among the five gunmen killed in a clash in Bohol in the central Philippines on Tuesday.

Senior Supt Jonathan Cabal, head of the Central Visayas police office intelligence division, confirmed Abu Rami’s death.

His death was described as a major setback to the group, which is responsible for dozens of kidnappings in Sabah.

The Abu Sayyaf leader was with about 60 gunmen who entered Bohol province when they were confronted by security forces.

At least nine people – five militants, three soldiers and one policeman – were killed in the gun battle, which took place in the mountain village of Napo in Inabanga town.

Bohol province is relatively far from the terrorists’ southern jungle bases but the US Government had warned that the gunmen might carry out kidnappings there.

The Abu Sayyaf group led by Abu Rami is believed to have fled Jolo Island following an intensive Philippines’ military offensive.

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