One member of the Daulah Islamiyah – Maute Group was killed and a member of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) was wounded following a clash in Barangay Kalangan, Piagapo, Lanao del Sur.
According to Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete, Commander of the Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom), the confrontation between the Scout Ranger Company and the Daulah Islamiyah – Maute Group (DI-MG) lasted for 15 minutes.
Several hours later, another clash occurred between the 44th Infantry Battalion (44th IB) and nearly ten DI-MG members, believed to be led by an alias “Usman.” This second encounter also lasted for 15 minutes.
After the gunfight, one DI-MG member was confirmed dead, and an AFP soldier was injured.
Authorities recovered various high-caliber firearms, including an M16 rifle, an M14 rifle, 32 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition, two rifle grenades, five 7.62mm bullets, an M1 Garand, an IED circuit indicator, and personal items from the scene.
Lt. Gen. Nafarrete praised the courage and dedication of the Joint Task Force for their continuous efforts to combat rebel groups that seek to disrupt peace in the region.
In a prior statement, LTC. Roden Orbon, spokesperson of the 6th Infantry Division (6ID), expressed that efforts are ongoing to maintain peace in South Central Mindanao and combat terrorist groups like Daulah Islamiyah and BIFF within the 6ID’s Area of Responsibility.