ZAMBOANGA CITY – Eighteen Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters members and four soldiers were killed while 11 others were wounded in operations against the Islamic State-inspired terrorist group in Maguindanao since Monday.
Armed Forces of the Philippines-Western Mindanao Command chief Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana said soldiers recovered at least five bodies of BIFF fighters in their lairs in Barangay Salman, Ampatuan and Hofer.
The BIFF suffered undetermined number of wounded whom they brought along during their withdrawal in Barangay Salman .
Sobejana said operating troops utilized air and artillery assets to bombard the terrorist group in their lairs in the forested areas of Barangay Salman.
He said soldiers were able to penetrate the encampment sites of the BIFF and recovered assorted firearms, ammunitions, improvised explosive devices, and war material.
Sobejana said the series of military operations started last March 2 after they received reports from residents on the presence of BIFF fighters.
Ground troops have been deployed within the conflict affected areas to prevent the escalation of the skirmishes and possible harassment of civilians by the BIFF rebels under Commander Salahuddin Hassan.
“We nevertheless pursue our campaign to pound down the remaining terrorists, penetrate enemy lairs, and ensure the safety of the people,” Sobejana added.
Sobejana cited the heroism and gallantry of slain soldiers who fought against the terrorist group. (Nonoy Lacson and Joseph Jubelag)