3 soldiers shot dead in Lanao Norte

LANAO DEL NORTE, Philippines — Suspected members of the Maute group shot dead three soldiers and their civilian companion in a gun attack in Poona Piagapo town on Thursday.

Cpls. Albert Saura and Bryan Binayog, Pfc. Albert Soriano of the Army’s 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade (IB) and Camilo Andog died at the scene.

Col. Isaias Bacurnay, Lanao del Norte police officer-in-charge, said the soldiers were on a rented motorcycle owned by Tandog on their way to the market in Baloi when they were waylaid.

Bacurnay, who led responding police officers, said local officials are certain that the culprits are members of the Maute group.

The gunmen also opened fire at a gray Toyota Hilux, leaving its owner, Amen Sumagumba, wounded.

Lt. Col. Domingo Dulay, 4th Mechanized Battalion commander, said soldiers conducted pursuit operations in coordination with the Poona Piagapo and Pantao Ragat police.— Roel Pareño