5 soldiers hurt in Lanao clash

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — Five soldiers were wounded in an encounter with members of the Maute group in Madalum, Lanao del Sur on Wednesday.

Personnel of the 55th Infantry Battalion led by Lt. Col. Franco Rafael Alano launched the operation in response to the reported presence of armed men in Barangay Tamporong.

Alano said troops overran a Maute camp, where an improvised explosive device, bomb components, assorted ammunition, food and other personal belongings were recovered.

“Notably, the troops recovered a hammock of an infant in the terrorists’ lair,” he said.

Troops in Lanao del Sur have been ordered to pursue the remnants of the Maute group.