Security forces discover bomb in Jolo, Sulu

State forces prevented an attack in Jolo, Sulu after discovering an explosive on Saturday, the Armed Forces of the Philippines Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) said on Sunday.

WestMinCom said the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) discovered the bomb between the Harbor Master and Maritime Police Office while conducting area paneling at Jolo pier at 6:02 p.m.

The PCG team was prompted when the bomb-sniffing dog sat beside the item. They immediately inspected it and discovered two electric blasting caps, one rifle grenade, one spark plug, and concrete nails.

Troops of the 35th Infantry Battalion immediately cordoned the area while the EOD Team of Sulu Provincial Police Office and Jolo Municipal Police Station facilitated the verification and confirmation of the explosive.

"I commend our troops and our partners for this accomplishment. You saved the lives of the innocent people and foiled this terroristic activity of our heartless enemies,” Joint Task Force Sulu Commander Brigadier General William Gonzales said in a statement.

WestMinCom Commander Lieutenant General Corleto Vinluan Jr. attributed the prevention of the attack to the intelligence operations of the security forces.

“This success is a result of the intensified conduct of intelligence operations and the strengthened collaboration with the police and other security agencies, thus preempting the terrorists from executing their terror plan,” he said.

“I commend the troops of the JTF Sulu for a job well done,” he added.

On August 24, a twin explosion hit Jolo leaving 15 people killed and over 70 wounded. The attack was executed by two suicide bombers, according to the military.

Authorities tagged Mundi Sawadjaan, who is connected to the Abu Sayyaf, as the mastermind of the attack.

After the Jolo blasts, the military said they are anticipating another terrorist attack. —Joviland Rita/KG, GMA News