Gov’t forces capture 45 MNLF gunmen amid Zamboanga skirmishes

Moro National Liberation Front. AFP FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines – Forty-five members of the National Liberation Front battling with government forces in Zamboanga City were captured by authorities on Thursday.

Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala, military spokesman said the MNLF were captured within the “constriction area” in Sta. Catalina village.

He added that they were still doing assessment on the number of MNLF men they were still fighting.

He noted that it was difficult to do military operations in an urban terrain.

“It’s difficult because there are lots of buildings, it’s not easy. Our movements are deliberate because of the presence of the hostages. We don’t consider it a delay. We cannot put speed when it comes to the safety of the hostages,” he said.

At least 30 MNLF gunmen also surrendered to authorities on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, three soldiers were killed and six were wounded in a clash with MNLF in Rio Hondo village on Thursday as the siege entered its 18th day.

Three MNLF members were also killed.