Suspected Dawlah Islamiya leader, 3 others killed in Maguindanao clash

COTABATO CITY — Government forces killed a suspected sub-leader of the extremist group Dawlah Islamiya (DI) and three of his followers during a joint law enforcement operation in Sultan Mastura town, Maguindanao del Norte on Friday afternoon.

Lt. Col. Eugene Balugo, officer-in-charge of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group–Regional Field Unit 15 in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (CIDG-RFU-BAR), said the operation was conducted at around 3:30 p.m. in Barangay Tapayan to serve several warrants of arrest against the suspect.

In a report to Maj. Gen. Robert Morico II, CIDG Director, Balugo said the suspect and his companions allegedly resisted arrest, triggering a brief exchange of gunfire between them and the approaching law enforcement personnel.

READ: 5 Dawlah Islamiyah members killed in Cotabato operation

Capt. Lyndon G. Mondragon, head of the CIDG Cotabato City Field Unit, said the suspect and his three followers opened fire on the operating team.

Authorities withheld the identity of the slain suspect but said he was affiliated with the DI-Hassan Group and the Alpha King Group, which have been linked to bombing incidents in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat, as well as killings, arson, and other violent activities in Maguindanao del Sur.

The suspect was wanted for several criminal offenses, including destructive arson, direct assault, multiple counts of frustrated murder, double murder, and direct assault with multiple attempted murder.

He was also accused of carrying out terrorism activities. 

The warrants were issued by courts in Cotabato City, Shariff Aguak in Maguindanao del Sur, and Iligan City in Lanao del Norte.

Balugo said the suspect was listed in the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Periodic Status Report and ranked as the No. 4 most wanted person at the provincial level in Maguindanao del Sur.

During clearing operations, authorities recovered an assault rifle, three .45-caliber pistols, and an improvised explosive device.

Despite describing the operation as a law enforcement success, Morico extended his sympathies and condolences to the families of those who died.

He also assured the public that the CIDG would remain steadfast in upholding the law and intensifying efforts to combat criminality and terrorism across the country.