Government forces defuse clan war in Lanao del Sur

 PAGADIAN CITY (March 9, 2021) - Joint elements of the military and police intervened in a showdown between two heavily-armed clans in Lanao del Sur on March 6, 2021.

According to WestMinCom Commander Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Jr., the troops of the 82nd Infantry Battalion received information regarding the situation in Barangays Pindolonan and Malna, both of Kapai, Lanao del Sur.

“The informant sought for military intervention in the sporadic gunfights between the two feuding families in their community,” said Lt. Gen. Vinluan, Jr.

Acting on the report, the troops of the 82IB coordinated with the PNP Kapai, and together they conducted a law enforcement security operation in the specified area.

“Our troops together with our partners from the PNP were able to seize eight high-powered and one low-powered firearms from the individuals involved,” said Lt. Col. Rafman Altre, Commanding Officer of the 82IB.

The confiscated firearms include one Elisco M16A1 rifle, one M16 Colt AR15 Model 613, one Sniper rifle, one 5.56 Bushmaster rifle attached with Grenade Launcher, one 7.62 M14 rifle, one Cal. 30 Carbine, one Cal.22 Bolt Action Rifle, one M79 Grenade Launcher, and one Colt Cal. 45 pistol.

“We are currently negotiating with both parties, the Elias and Musama clans, to settle their dispute and embrace peace,” Lt. Col. Altre further said.

"We are also verifying on how and when did their conflict started, and if they are affiliated with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front," Lt. Col. Altre added.

The local government unit of Tagoloan II also sent emissaries for the eventual settlement of the conflict.

“We are hopeful that they will be able to resolve all their disagreements and give each other a chance to live in harmony and prosperity,” said Brig. Gen. Jose Maria Cuerpo III, Commander of the 103rd Infantry Brigade.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Generoso Ponio, Commander of Joint Task Force ZamPeLan commended the troops for the successful operation that simmered down the rising security concerns.

The confiscated firearms are now in the custody of 82IB for documentation and proper disposition.

“The military is working doubly not only to end terrorism but to clear the communities from any threat. May these warring clans reconcile and no longer engage in any violent action against each other,” Lt. Gen. Vinluan, Jr. stated. (By JONG CADION with reports and photos from WestMinCom-PIO)

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