DI-Maute Group leader killed in Lanao clash with soldiers

A leader of the Daulah Islamiyah - Maute Group was killed in an encounter with soldiers in Piagapo, Lanao del Sur, the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) reported Sunday.
 

WESTMINCOM said Alandoni Macadaya Lucsadatu, also known as Lando or Abu Shams, was killed when around five members of the DI-Maute Group encountered soldiers of the Army’s 3rd Scout Ranger Battalion and the 51st Infantry Battalion in Barangay Tambo over the weekend.

Lucsadatu was said to be a resident of Barangay Old Poblacion in Munai, Lanao del Norte, and was believed to be one of the remaining sub-leaders of the DI-Maute Group operating in the boundaries of Lanao del Norte and Lanao del Sur.

He was reported to have been recruiting new members for the terror group among his relatives in Munai. He is also believed to have been responsible for the death of Marow Lucsadato Mocsara AKA Abu Anggo or Abdane, a DI-member who surrendered to the military in November.

WESTMINCOM said troops recovered an assortment of firearms, military gea, and propaganda materials in the nearby area. They also apprehended Lucsadatu’s aunt, identified as Saadia Dato Angni.

“As the year is about to end, we are intensifying our operations to ensure the safety and security of the people during this yuletide season,” WESTMINCOM commander Lt. Gen. William Gonzales said in an emailed statement.

“We are grateful for the support of our stakeholders and the communities that led to our enormous achievements in the campaign against terrorism in our area of operation,” he added. —RF, GMA Integrated News