IS-linked Maute terror group on brink of collapse – AFP

Authorities secure the gymnasium of Mindanao State University (MSU) in Marawi City on December 2, 2023, shortly after it was turned into a bloody crime scene. (Photo from the Lanao Del Sur Provincial Government via Reuters)

MANILA, Philippines — The Islamic State-linked Maute Group is on the brink of collapse following the death of its key leaders, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said on Tuesday.

The Daulah-Islamiyah (DI) Maute Group made headlines following its alleged involvement in the deadly bombing at Mindanao State University (MSU) on Dec. 2, 2023, leaving four people dead and 50 others wounded.

“The Dawlah Islamiyah-Maute Group is already on the brink of collapse following a series of decisive military and joint law enforcement operations,” AFP Spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla said in a regular press briefing.

Padilla made the declaration following the death of Khadafi Mimbesa, also known as “Engineer,” the amir or leader of the DI-Maute.

Mimbesa, also the alleged mastermind of the MSU bombing, was wounded during an encounter in Lanao del Sur from Jan. 25 to 26 before succumbing to his wounds sometime between Jan. 28 and 30, according to Padilla.

Aside from Mimbesa, a certain Abdul Hadi also known as “Hodi Imam” and Saumay Saiden alias “Omar” were also killed in recent operations.

Hadi was the one who assembled the IED while Saiden rigged and detonated the bomb at MSU.

Meanwhile, Arsani Membisa (also known as “Khatab”), the deputy amir or leader of the DI-Maute group, has also surrendered.

“Engineer who has good leadership and sympathy with his comrades and Khatab with a wide network in Lanao del Norte due to facility ties and strong personality greatly affected the group’s ability to operate,” Padilla said.

As of Feb.12, Padilla said 12 DI-Maute members were killed while three were arrested, and another three surrendered following the pursuit operations after the bombing.

Padilla said the AFP is still pursuing the remnants of the group.

“On their strength and capabilities, the neutralization of the DI-MG’s trained bomber and combat-skilled members rendered the group significantly decapitated to launch large-scale terrorist attacks,” Padilla said.