Army Clashes with Daesh-Inspired Group in Lanao Sur

By JONG CADION

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (March 12, 2019) – The Army’s 55th Infantry Battalion, 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division clashed with more or less 22 members of DI-Lanao group under Abu Dar in Brgy. Calaludan, Pagayawan, Lanao del Sur 4:20 p.m. Monday, March 11, 2019, military official disclosed. 

“We received information from the local populace on the presence of DI-Lanao group in the area and we responded to their call”, said Col. Romeo Brawner, 103rd Infantry Brigade Commander, which has operational jurisdiction over Lanao del Sur.

Tabak Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO) acting Chief Capt. Clint Antipala identified the two DI-Lanao members were killed as alias Abu Tahir (body count) and Abu Jihad (thru report of locals), while two government forces were killed in the encounter and one was also wounded.

Troops also recovered one carbine rifle and lower receiver (part) of M-16 rifle.

“We are sustaining our focused military operation in order to destroy the remnants of this group (DI-Lanao) and make the province free from terrorist,” said Col. Brawner.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to the bereaved families and friends of our soldiers who paid the ultimate sacrifice in protecting our people against the terrorist group”, said Brigadier General Roberto Ancan, the 1st Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Zampelan (Zamboanga Peninsula and Lanao Provinces) Commander.

“Their sacrifices were borne out of their dedication to protect the Meranaos in pursuit of peace and development”, Ancan added.

Additional troops were sent in order to pursue the fleeing terrorists as well as to ensure the safety and security of the local populace in the area. (With DPAO PR and photos)