1 killed as military conducts close air support vs. alleged Daulah Islamiyah group in Maguindanao —6ID

A suspected rebel was killed as the military launched close air support against an alleged Daulah Islamiyah group in Datu Salibo, Maguindanao Monday morning, the Philippine Army's 6th Infantry Division (6ID) said.

In a statement issued on Monday, the 6ID said its unit and the Joint Task Force Central conducted a preemptive military operation against Daulah Islamiyah - Turaife Group members, who are allegedly harassing communities.

The fatality was identified as Sadam Salandang alias Sadam, an alleged member of BIFF Karialan Faction under alias Robot, according to the military.

Lieutenant Colonel Charlie Banaag, 6IB commander, said the body was turned over to local officials of Datu Salibo for proper burial.

Brigadier General Eduardo Gubat, commander of JTF Central and acting 6ID commander, said there was an encounter after the group allegedly harassed residents of Sitio Patawali in Barangay Ganta.

“Our troops from 6th Infantry (Redskin) Battalion under Lt. Col. Charlie Banaag responded immediately to secure the populace from this terrorist group. Also, Field Artillery conducted indirect fire aimed at the place where they were hiding,” he said.

“Their forces were further weakened after the close air support was conducted in the right place of the target. This happened because we do not want to disturb the peace, order and security enjoyed by those who live there,” he added.

The military said they recovered the following items in the area:

• two M16A1 rifles;
• an M203 grenade launcher;
• a Garand rifle;
• two carbines;
• a Barret cal .50;
• three magazines of M16;
• 12 pieces of IED main charge;
• 19 pieces blasting cap improvised;
• a bandolier;
• a basic phone;
• 19 pieces bag pack;
• 11 pieces 9 volt batteries;
• 13 pieces of hammock; and
• several ammunitions.

Due to the encounter, affected residents were displaced and temporarily sheltered in daycare centers of their barangays, 601st Infantry (Unifier) Brigade commander Colonel Oriel Pangcog said.

Gubat asked affected residents to remain calm as government forces control the situation. —Joviland Rita/KG, GMA News