The Philippine National Police (PNP) has revealed that the strength of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) has already been reduced to less than 400, with some no longer posing a threat as they have gone into hiding.

But what makes it complicated to neutralize them is that most of the remaining ASG members in Sulu are also serving as private armed goons of some erring politicians, said Director General Jesus Verzosa, PNP chief.

"Several of those wanted ASG members are somehow linked with some PAGs (Partisan Armed Groups) in Sulu. That’s why we are conducting continuous operations," said Verzosa.

Verzosa said they have actually doubled their efforts to neutralize the remaining ASG members who are connected with some large PAGs in Sulu, making them a serious threat to the peaceful conduct of the elections this year in the island province.

He said the intensified campaign, conducted with the military, has resulted in the killing of Albader Parad and six of his men Maimbung town and the arrest of the logistics officer of the Sulu-based ASG identified as Mujibar Amon in Indanan town.

"These positive development against the ASG is a positive indication of our continuing effort against the neutralization of ASG as a whole," said Verzosa.