Five soldiers were killed in fresh fighting in the southern Philippines island base of jailed Moro National Liberation Front leader Nur Misuari, pushing the death toll to 37. Provincial governor Yusop Jikiri said the soldiers were attacked on Wednesday near the Jolo public market, a day after a firefight around a pro-Misuari rally nearby left up to 32 people dead, including nine soldiers and 20 Misuari supporters. The fighting occurred a week after Malaysia deported Misuari to stand trial for rebellion.
The tactic will be to escalate violent clashes to the point where the Great Man's release can be demanded with some chance of compliance. Some hostages, maybe a few head-choppings, and he's back on the streets. |