(UPDATE) Nine fighters of the extremist group Daulah Islamiyah were killed as the military launched air and ground strikes on the group’s suspected base in Maguindanao on Friday.
BGen. Donald Gumiran, commander of the Army’s 602nd Brigade, revealed that the attack was carried out after residents of Sitio Mario Wata, Barangay Dalian in Pagulangan town reported the presence of the extremists in the area.
The assault came just days after the deadly bombing at Mindanao State University (MSU) in Marawi City on Sunday, which authorities said was the handiwork of the Daulah Islamiyah.
“Based on the report, there are nine….there is no body count but based on the report of people in the area nine died…we are trying to confirm this,” said Col. Dennis Almorato, spokesman of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division.
Gumiran said the group was “regrouping and undergoing training to orchestrate explosive attacks with the intention of spreading violence in populated areas across Central and South-Central Mindanao during the holiday season.”
He added that attack helicopters with high-precision rockets took part in the assault, ensuring the accuracy and effectiveness of the operation.
The military reported that there were no civilian casualties during the operation, demonstrating their commitment to protecting innocent lives.
Troops from the 6th Infantry Division are now pursuing the remnants of the extremist group, continuing their efforts to maintain peace and order in the region.
“We have also heightened our security measures against retaliatory attacks from this group following the neutralization of their leader and companions in the recent military operation,” said 6th Infantry Division commander Maj. Alex Santos Rillera.
Following the attack in Pagalungan, the Cotabato provincial police have been placed on high alert to ensure the safety of the community.
Cotabato police chief BGen. Jimili Macaraeg advised residents to promptly report any suspicious activities or individuals to local authorities. He emphasized that the safety and well-being of the community are their top priorities, and every effort is being made to maintain peace and order in the region.
In the MSU bombing, at least four people were killed and 54 others were wounded when an improvised explosive device (IED) was detonated in the middle of a mass at the MSU gymnasium.
On Thursday night, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) announced the capture of a suspect in the bombing.
AFP Public Affairs Chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad identified the suspect as Jafar Gamo Sultan, alias Jaf or Kurot. Sultan was captured by a joint unit of soldiers and police in Barangay Dulay Proper in Marawi.
The device used in the bombing was fashioned from a 60mm mortar, according to the police.
Trinidad mentioned that Sultan had a companion, a certain Omar, who witnesses identified as the man who planted the IED in the gymnasium. The task force team also seized two motorcycles used by the suspects.
The capture of Sultan showcases the government’s seriousness in capturing the perpetrators of the terrorist attack and ensuring that similar incidents will not happen again, said Trinidad.
Sultan will be turned over to the police for interrogation, as authorities continue their investigation into the incident.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has released sketches of two other suspects, Kadapi Mimbesa alias Engineer, and Arsani Membisa alias Katab/Papitos, both believed to be members of the Daulah Islamiyah.
In response to the MSU bombing, Senator Robinhood “Robin” Padilla filed a bill in the Senate that seeks to provide government assistance for victims of terrorist attacks.
Senate Bill 2511 aims to establish a comprehensive support system for those affected by such incidents, offering aid and resources to help them recover and rebuild their lives.
As the military continues its efforts to combat extremist groups like the Daulah Islamiyah, it is crucial for the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. Together, we can work towards a safer and more peaceful future.
Source: The Manila Times
