2 criminals slain in Maguindanao clash

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — Two suspected members of a criminal group were killed in an alleged encounter with government security forces in Datu Paglas, Maguindanao on Friday.

The fatalities, whose identities were not immediately available, were reportedly connected to the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).

The firefight, which broke out at around 6:30 a.m. in Barangay Lipao, resulted in the recovery of firearms and ammunition, according to Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, chief of the Western Mindanao Command.

A team composed of police officers and troopers of the Army’s 40th Infantry Battalion were patrolling in the area when they encountered the suspects.

The operation was part of a commitment of the military to help local authorities rid the area of lawless elements and BIFF militants, Sobejana said.

“We launched intensive operations against private armed groups, undocumented firearms and illegal drugs to deter crimes and secure peace and development in the area,” he added.

Sobejana said the military could not allow any lawless group to disrupt the peace and development being experienced by people in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.