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Four dead, four hurt after gov't troops clash with ISIS-inspired Abu Turaifie Group

Four persons died and four others were injured after around 10 members of the ISIS-inspired Abu Turaifie Group clashed with government troops in Maguindanao on Friday.

The firefight occurred at around 3 p.m. in Tunggol, Datu Montawal, the Philippine Army's 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division said.

A civilian identified as Babay Dansalan died while undergoing treatment at a hospital after fleeing members of the Abu Turaifie Group fired at residents.

The other three fatalities were from the rebel group, civilian residents said.

Among the injured were two civilians, Maula Rerente Mangimblas and Dangalao Dangwa Akad, who were also fired at by the rebels.

The two other injured persons were rebels, according to civilians, who saw them being fetched by two motorized boats at 7 p.m. on Friday. The bodies of their three members who died were also carried onto the boat.

At the time of the clash, government troops were patroling the area after they received a report of three improvised explosive devices to be transported from Sultan sa Barongis to Kabacan, North Cotabato.

The rebels fired at them, then fled southward.

Troops of Bravo Company of the 7th Infantry Battalion conducted pursuit operations, and were met with an armed group coming from Barangay Dunguan in Datu Montawal.

It was this group of armed men that fired at civilians, the military said.

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Recovered at the site of the clash were two M16 rifles, one M1 Garand rifle, one caliber .45 pistol, assorted magazines and ammunition.

Two suspected members of the Abu Turaifie Group, identified as Mohamid Kambilan and Abdulah Minola, were arrested and turned over to the Datu Montawal Municipal Station.

Joint Task Force Central Commander Brigadier General Cirilito Sobejana said the military and the local government are helping the wounded civilians in their medical requirements.

He also reiterated that military operations will continue against those plotting to sow disorder.

“Joint Task Force Central has sustained its focused military operations targeting the
suspects of Isulan IED bombings, to give justice on the civilian victims. Manhunt
operation is also strengthened in coordination with the PNP [Philippine National Police]," he said.

“We further enhance our security posture to ensure the safety and security of the
community to preempt terror attacks in various areas," he added. —KG, GMA News