2 suspected extremists killed in Lanao del Sur clash —military

Two alleged members of the extremist Daulah Islamiyah-Maute Group were killed in an encounter with government troops in Balabagan, Lanao del Sur on Wednesday, the Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincon) said Thursday.

In a statement, Wesmincom Commander Lieutenant General Alfredo Rosario, Jr. said the 1st Marine Brigade troops chanced upon the group of Maute Group member identified as Polo Alim.

“Firefight ensued after which the enemy withdrew leaving behind the body of one of their slain comrades,” he said.

During clearing operations, the military and Balabagan Police personnel recovered another cadaver of a suspected Maute Group member.

Western Mindanao Command handout photo

Also recovered from the site were war materials including an M16 rifle with M203 Grenade Launcher attached, a cellphone, a hand grenade, and drug paraphernalia.

Commander of Joint Task Force Central, Major General Juvymax Uy said the fleeing Maute Group members brought more slain comrades with them.

Four soldiers were injured in the encounter. They are all in stable condition after being brought to hospitals.

Rosario encouraged Mindanao residents to be more vigilant as “lawless elements” are more active during the election period.

“I call on the people of Mindanao to remain vigilant especially during the election period where lawless elements are trying to disrupt the peace in the communities. Immediately report to the proper authorities any sighting of suspicious individuals and objects in your locality,” he said. —LBG, GMA News