A cache of war materials and components believed to be used for fabricating firearms was seized after military troops raided an arms factory in Barangay Pabrica, Marogong, Lanao del Sur over the weekend.

According to the 1st Infantry Division (1ID), the target area was once a stronghold of the Daulah Islamiyah-Maute Group (DI-MG), based on validated intelligence reports.

The military said the materials seized were believed to have been used in producing high-powered weapons.

Among the items confiscated were a milling machine, a welding machine, and other weapons fabricating materials.

Soldiers also seized at least 50 pieces of .50 caliber barrels, a .50 caliber propellant cartridge, five Barrett suppressors, three Barrett scopes, a 60mm tube, and a grenade.

After the operation, the troops secured the area to ensure the safety of communities nearby.

“The successful recovery of these war materials and firearms fabrication equipment is a significant step in denying remnants of the Daulah Islamiya–Maute Group the capability to rearm and threaten our communities,” 101st Infantry Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Yasser Bara, said.

1ID Commander, Major General Yegor Barroquillo Jr., lauded the troops for their commitment to protect communities and neutralizing threats posed by lawless groups.

“This successful operation demonstrates our firm resolve to eliminate the capability of terrorist groups to regroup and rearm. We will continue to intensify our intelligence-driven operations to ensure that communities in Lanao del Sur remain safe and secure. I commend our troops for their courage, vigilance, and dedication to duty,” Barroquillo added.