Nine Daulah Islamiya-Maute Group members were arrested after a firefight between government troops and the terrorists in Barangay Paigoay, Tubaran, Lanao del Sur at dawn, Saturday, May 29.
The encounter happened when combined police and military elements launched an operation to serve warrants of arrest for murder and attempted murder against Farahufon Hadj Saar aka Abu Zacariah/ Omar, 43; and Muna Kali aka Abu Dimam.
Government troops however were fired upon by the suspects as the former were approaching the targets’ residence.
The lawmen returned fire and were able to arrest nine members of the terror group.
They were identified as Camaroden Tindug, 52; Sabdullah Sarip, 36; Oter Macaungun, 35; Asnare Alisood, 20; Alisood Dima, 52; Sowaib Abdullah, 18; Saaduden Adapun, 30; Zaenal Abdulatip, 33; and Aleem Salih Pitiilan, 45.
Abu Zacariah and Abu Dimam escaped during the firefight.
Meanwhile, authorities also recovered an improvised explosive device, high-powered firearms and ammunition, communication equipment and propaganda materials from the suspects.
Maj. Gen. Generoso Ponio, Joint Task Force ZamPeLan Commander, commended troops for their accomplishment.