2 Moro rebels killed in clan war in Cotabato

MANILA, Philippines (Xinhua) - Two members of the secessionist group Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) were killed in fighting which started Tuesday in Midsayap, North Cotabato, a military official said today.

Capt. Antonio Bulao, civil military operations officer of the Philippine Army's 602nd Brigade, said two members of village security forces were also wounded in the conflict which was triggered by a long-standing "rido" or clan war.

Bulao said fighting broke out Tuesday night when members of the MILF's 105th Base Command, under Commander Abas Kudanding, ambushed the group of Datu Rhenz Tukuran, head of Lumupog village.

Two men of Kudanding were killed while two members of the village security forces identified as Daniel Bagener and Anuaruden Sambayan were injured in the initial skirmish.

On Wednesday, Bulao said the group of Tukuran regrouped and attacked the forces of Kudanding. There were no reported casualties in the incident.

He said the conflict has displaced at least 50 families who sought refuge in nearby villages.

Bulao said the military has deployed troops in the area to contain the situation. He said the MILF leadership also intervened to pacify the warring groups.