MANILA, Philippines — Government troops have launched an air strike against members of the Islamic State-linked Daulah Islamiyah in Maguing, Lanao del Sur on Tuesday morning, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said.
AFP spokesperson Col. Ramon Zagala confirmed that the air strike was launched as members of the 103rd Brigade and the police were conducting law enforcement operations against the Daulah Islamiyah group.
“Troops of the 103rd Brigade under Bgen Jose Maria Cuerpo II conducted law enforcement operations together with the PNP against local terrorists led by Abu Zacaria at the hinterlands of the municipality of Maguing Lanao del Sur early this morning March 1, 2022,” Zagala said in a text message.
“Upon reaching near the target, close air support was given to protect troops from enemy anti-personnel mines. Troops are still in the area still engaged with the terrorists,” he added.
Zagala assured citizens who were alarmed by the air strike that the operation was necessary for their safety against terrorism.
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