The recent death of Khadafi Mimbesa, also known as “Engineer,” and top leader of the terrorist group Dawlah-Islamiya (DI), has dealt a severe blow to the organization, according to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). The AFP spokesperson, Colonel Francel Margareth Padilla, announced in a briefing that Mimbesa and another DI member were critically wounded during a military operation on January 26 in Piagapo, Lanao del Sur.
Mimbesa succumbed to his injuries three days after the operation, as confirmed by statements from his deputy Arasani Tembisa, alias “Katab,” and two others who later surrendered to authorities. The military operation resulted in the death of 10 members of the DI-Mimbesa subgroup, with three others being arrested in January. Among the fatalities was Saucy Saiden, also known as Omar, who was a subleader and cell/team leader. Omar detonated an improvised explosive device (IED) during the operation.
Colonel Padilla also identified Abdul Hadi, alias Jodi Imam, an expert in IED assembly, who was responsible for constructing the explosive device that caused the deaths of some of their comrades. The AFP spokesperson highlighted that the Dawlah Islamiya-Maute Group (Lanao) is on the verge of collapse due to a series of decisive military and joint law enforcement operations. These operations have specifically targeted the leadership and perpetrators of the Mindanao State University bombing that occurred on December 3, 2023.
“The death of Omar, also known as Engineer, and the surrender of Katab have left the DI-Mimbesa sub-group in disarray,” Colonel Padilla stated. The AFP further emphasized that the strength of the DI-Maute Group has significantly diminished with the elimination of a dozen operatives during sustained military operations in Lanao del Sur.
The successful neutralization of Khadafi Mimbesa and the subsequent disruption of the DI-Mimbesa sub-group mark a significant victory in the ongoing efforts to combat terrorism in the Philippines. The AFP’s relentless pursuit of these extremist organizations has demonstrated their commitment to safeguarding the nation and protecting its citizens from the threats posed by these groups.
It is important to recognize the international significance of this operation. The actions of the AFP not only contribute to the security of the Philippines but also serve as a deterrent to terrorist activities globally. The collaboration between the AFP and law enforcement agencies showcases the effectiveness of joint efforts in combating terrorism.
These recent developments also highlight the importance of intelligence gathering and the tireless efforts of security forces in tracking down and neutralizing high-value targets. The successful operations against the DI-Mimbesa sub-group demonstrate the effectiveness of the AFP’s intelligence network and their ability to disrupt terrorist activities before they can be executed.
The death of Khadafi Mimbesa and the dismantling of the DI-Mimbesa sub-group should serve as a reminder to other extremist organizations that the Philippines remains resolute in its fight against terrorism. The AFP’s commitment to upholding peace and security in the region is unwavering, and they will continue to pursue and neutralize any threats to national and international security.
As the international community stands united in the fight against terrorism, the successful operations conducted by the AFP serve as a testament to the collective determination to eradicate these threats. The death of a top leader like Khadafi Mimbesa is a significant setback for Dawlah-Islamiya and sends a powerful message that terrorism will not be tolerated.
The AFP’s efforts, in collaboration with international partners, will continue to disrupt and dismantle extremist networks, ensuring the safety and well-being of people both within the Philippines and beyond. The recent victory against the DI-Mimbesa sub-group is a step forward in the global fight against terrorism, reaffirming the commitment to a world free from the fear of violence and extremism.
Source: The Manila Times
