The Philippine National Police (PNP) has placed its units, particularly in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), on alert over possible retaliatory attacks by the Dawlah Islamiyah following the killing of an alleged sub-leader and three of his followers in Maguindanao del Norte.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. ordered police units in the area to remain vigilant and assess the remaining capabilities of extremist networks operating in Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur and neighboring provinces, according to a report by RH Edniel Parrosa on DZRH's Magandang Umaga Pilipinas.
Nartatez said intelligence operations are continuing in coordination with other government agencies to prevent the group from posing further threats to peace and security in the region.
The four were killed on Friday, October 16, when police and military personnel attempted to serve multiple arrest warrants against the group of DI sub-leader Yusa Ganoy.
Authorities identified Ganoy and his followers as suspects in the bombing in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat, as well as other violent incidents in nearby areas.
The operation led to a firefight after the suspects allegedly engaged government forces, according to the initial account of the incident.
Forensic examination is ongoing on the recovered assault rifle, three .45-caliber pistols and an improvised explosive device (IED) found during clearing operations.
Watch the full report below:
