A sub-leader of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) was killed in an armed encounter in the waters off Tuburan, Basilan while trying to leave the island province on Saturday, December 2, 2023.

ASG sub-leader Mudzimar Sawadjaan alias “Mundi” was initially intercepted by government troops who were conducting maritime patrol in the coastal areas of Basilan.

The military said Sawadjaan was the leader operating in Sulu. He was a bomb expert and the alleged mastermind behind the suicide bombings and other atrocities in Sulu.

Among the atrocities he allegedly orchestrated were the 2019 Jolo Cathedral bombing that killed 23 people and wounded more than 100 others; the 2020 twin bombing in downtown Jolo that killed 14 people and wounded 75 others; and several suicide bombings during the past few years.

Sawadjaan left Sulu late last year to evade government operations and he was later monitored in Basilan.

“The neutralization of @MUNDI will not only keep the people safe but has finally given justice to the hundreds of victims of his atrocities,” Western Mindanao Command Chief, Lt. Gen. William Gonzales, said.

"We welcome all remaining ASG members who have decided to value their own and their families' lives. Be assured that we will help them reintegrate into the mainstream society," 101st Infantry Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Alvin Luzon, said.

The local government of Basilan facilitated the burial rites of the slain ASG leader.