Shariff saydona muistapaha: Government troops have successfully seized two high-powered firearms following a clash with a coalition of armed terrorists during heightened military operations in Maguindanao del Sur.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Army's 38th Infantry Battalion (38IB) reported on Friday that its troops engaged members of the Dawlah Islamiya (DI) - Hassan Group, the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), and the Panenekelan Group in Barangay Inaladan, Shariff Saydona Muistapaha town. Lt. Col. Erwin E. Felongco, commander of the 38IB, stated that the government forces were on a decisive military operation when they encountered the armed men. Following a brief exchange of gunfire, the armed group retreated, leading to the recovery of an M16 rifle and an M1 Garand rifle during the subsequent manhunt.
Military officials indicated that this operation represents a significant blow to the armed groups, which have been linked to numerous violent acts, including bombings and ambushes against security forces in the region. Recent operations have resulted in setbacks for these groups, notably the death of Esmael Abubakar, alias Commander Bungos, leader of the BIFF-Bungos Faction, and the arrest of Muslimin Amilil, a key figure in the Panenekelan Group and alleged bomb maker.
The remaining members of these groups have reportedly consolidated their forces following these setbacks. Brig. Gen. Edgar L. Catu, commander of the 601st Infantry Brigade, emphasized the importance of the firearm seizures in undermining the terrorist groups' capabilities. He reaffirmed the military's commitment to eliminating the terrorist threat to ensure safer communities.
Maj. Gen. Jose Vladimir R. Gagara, commander of the 6th Infantry Division (6ID) and Joint Task Force Central (JTFC), praised the troops for their bravery and dedication. He noted that the success of the operation was due to the professional execution of the soldiers' duties, and assured that the 6ID and JTFC will continue relentless operations to maintain safety and peace, particularly with the upcoming Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) parliamentary elections.
Earlier operations in Mamasapano, Maguindanao del Sur, led to the arrest of two individuals allied with the DI-Hassan Group, with the seizure of pistols and fragmentation grenades, further disrupting the operational capacity of these armed groups.
