Western Mindanao cops alerted after death of Dawlah Islamiyah 'amir' in Maguindanao operation
photo: PNP
Police forces in central and western parts of Mindanao were alerted for possible retaliatory attacks following the death of a high-ranking leader and bomb expert of the terrorist group Dawlah Islamiyah–Hassan Group (DI-HG).
Our personnel on the ground maintain high level of alert and continuously strengthen defensive position to deter any possible retaliatory attack while also ensuring the safety and security of the civilian population in coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” said Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr., acting chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP.
Aside from alerting all police stations and units, Nartatez said they are now working closely with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), through its local commanders, to ensure the security and safety of the public.
On Sunday, Dec. 7, Ustadz Mohammad Usman Solaiman, the pinpointed amir of DI-HG was killed during an operation on Sunday in Barangay Satan, Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao del Sur.
Solaiman was believed to be an expert bomb maker, and his group was allegedly behind a series of bomb attacks targeting bus units across Mindanao.
Nartatez assured the public that the PNP, together with the military, is fully prepared to secure the area and maintain peace and order, “We are ready to maintain stability in the area with the assistance of our colleagues in the military.”
Nartatez also appealed to the public to remain vigilant and report any information regarding the presence of lawless elements or local terror groups in their communities.
“I urge the public to remain calm and immediately inform authorities if you have information about these lawless elements or other local terror groups,” he said.