Two alleged BIFF members killed in battle with military in Maguindanao

May 21, 2020

Two alleged members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) were killed in an encounter with government forces in Maguindanao on Monday.

In a report Wednesday night, Major Arvin Encinas, spokesman of the Western Mindanao Command, said soldiers of the 1st Mechanized Infantry Battalion encountered the group of Saga Indong, Mahdi Adam, and alias Zan under Karialan faction of Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Barangay Lower Salbu, Datu Saudi Ampatuan at 7:50pm.

Encinas said the five-hour clash resulted in the killing two bandits identified as Salamat Kutin, brother of alias Zan, and certain Nasruden Akmad.

"Two more fighters, identified as alias Amad and Saudi, incurred gunshot wounds," he said.

Encinas said the mechanized company also delivered fire and fought anew against 10 enemies led by Samuel Panigas in the same barangay at 9:10pm.

"Another twenty-minute clash ensued between combat troops and fighters in said barangay five minutes after," he said.

Encinas said the mortar teams of the 57th Infantry Battalion, also delivered fire towards the enemy location in Sitio Lagasan, Barangay Elian, Datu Saudi Ampatuan at 7:52pm.

"Combat troops further engaged in a two-hour gunfight with 20 enemies, led by Pahad Adam, Saudara Malik, and Zainoden Kiaro," he said.

On Tuesday morning, the combat troops of the 570th IB discovered enemy tracks and empty shells of ammunition following clearing operations in Barangays Pagatin 1 and Sambulawan, Datu Salibo.

"At 7:30 pm yesterday, the 1st Mech Bn cleared the engagement site in Sitio Lining, Barangay Lower Salbu," he said.

Maj. Gen. Diosdado Carreon, Joint Task Force Central commander, said ground forces built up their pursuit and combat operations against Daesh-inspired fighters.

Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the Western Mindanao Command, said the "offensives are mounted to derail enemy movement and hostile plans which may hamper the security and enforcement of community quarantine in the area.'' Robina Asido/DMS