Four children among civilians killed by military in Philippines
At least seven civilians, including four children, and an off-duty soldier were killed during a military operation against al-Qaida-linked militants on a southern Philippine island, officials said today.
The victims’ families claimed they were killed before dawn on Monday by soldiers searching for Abu Sayyaf militants who had abducted a businesswoman last week, Sulu provincial Governor Sakur Tan said.
The military said it will investigate. Two soldiers and three militants were reported killed in the fighting in Maimbung township on Jolo island, part of Sulu, the military said.
