ILIGAN CITY – Soldiers killed nine Dawlah Islamiyah-Maute Group members in an encounter in Barangay Taporog, Piagapo, Lanao del Sur on Thursday, January 25.

SOLDIERS view the remains of nine Dawlah Islamiyah fighters slain in an encounter in Lanao del Sur on January 25. (Photo via Bonita Ermac)
Troops fought 15 members of the group led by a certain Mas'od who were tagged in the December 3 bombing of a Mass at the Mindanao State University in Marawi City.
The slain fighters were identified as Omar, Mikdad, Imam, Abdullah, Muhajeer, Hamza, Mauwiyah, Mohaimen, and a still unidentified individual.
Four soldiers were wounded in the gun battle and were taken to the Amai Pakpak Medical Center here.
Recovered in the encounter site were three M14 rifles, one Bushmaster rifle, two M16 rifles, one M203 grenade launcher, one 653 rifle, a high-powered firearm owned by the 51st Infantry Batallion, one R4 rifle, four Baofeng radios with charger, and a smartphone.
Brig. Gen. Yegor Rey P. Barroquillo, 103rd Infantry (Haribon) Brigade commander, thanked troops for their unwavering commitment in dealing with the enemies and sustaining peace in their area of responsibility.
Major Gen. Gabriel C. Viray III, 1st Infantry Division commander, commended 3rd Scout Ranger Battalion for their victory against the DI-MG. He also cited their unwavering dedication and bravery.
"Our troops continue to monitor the situation and will provide updates as necessary. Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured soldiers, and we remain committed to ensuring their swift recovery," said Viray.