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2nd improvised explosive device found in Mlang


KIDAPAWAN CITY, Philippines—Bomb experts detonated an improvised explosive device (IED) placed near a swimming resort in Mlang town, North Cotabato, shortly before 8:30 p.m. Friday. Mlang Mayor Joselito Piñol said the IED was found by a group of young boys who were passing along Dagohoy Street. Bomb experts from the 603rd Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team (EODT, however, could not determine the design of the IED. “We alerted already our police operatives and our Civilian Volunteers Organization (CVO) to avoid similar incident," Piñol said. No one has claimed responsibility for planting the IED, but the mayor said this could be the handiwork of lawless elements trying to scare residents. This was the second IED detonated in the town Friday. Around 6:30 a.m., an IED made from a 60mm projectile was also found by a 15-year-old boy at the back of the Mlang Pilot Elementary School. The local government unit canceled all classes in all levels and bomb experts conducted clearing operations in all private and public high school in the area. On Thursday, another IED went off at the back of Panadero bakery inside the public market. No one was hurt in the explosion. After the explosion, a self-confessed member of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) identified as Norodin Aliliaya was arrested by responding police. Investigators recovered a black bag containing another IED fabricated from a 60mm projectile. The suspected bomber is now detained at the Mlang PNP pending filing of charges in court. But MILF spokesperson Eid Kabalu denied that the suspect is a member of the secessionist group. Kabalu claimed there are people who wanted to destroy the MILF as an organization by launching bombing attacks in Mlang. - Williamor A. Magbanua
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