Courtesy: CIDG
TEN alleged members of the Dawlah Islamiya-Maute Group (DI-MG), including two of its top leaders, were killed in a fierce armed encounter in Lanao del Sur on Friday.
The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) reported that the clash occurred during a manhunt operation targeting individuals identified by aliases “Usman” and “Muslih,” who are believed to be the amir (leader) and sub-leader of the DI-MG, respectively. Both leaders had standing warrants of arrest for serious offenses including murder, frustrated homicide, homicide, kidnapping, and serious illegal detention.
The intense firefight took place in Barangay Banga, Marantao town, beginning at approximately 1:05 a.m. and lasting until 9 a.m. According to the CIDG’s statement, operating teams were met with heavy gunfire upon approaching the suspects’ hideout. The CIDG operatives were compelled to return fire to defend themselves against what they described as a “lethal attack by unlawful aggressors,” resulting in the armed encounter and the subsequent neutralization of ten DI-MG members. The fatalities included the two alleged leaders, Usman and Muslih, along with four other males and four females.
During the operation, authorities recovered a cache of weapons and components, including four light weapons: two M16 rifles, an M4 rifle, and an M1 Garand rifle, as well as a caliber 38 revolver. Additionally, a hand grenade and several improvised explosive device (IED) components were seized. The CIDG highlighted the significant threat posed by the DI-MG, stating that the group is allegedly responsible for sowing fear through terroristic activities, including crimes and ambushes that have claimed the lives of soldiers and other government forces in the region.
The CIDG emphasized that the DI-MG continues to pose a significant threat to the peace and security of the Bangsamoro people. The successful neutralization of these ten members, including key leadership figures, is considered a major blow to the group’s operational capabilities in the area. The operation underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat terrorist groups and maintain peace and order in Mindanao.
