Troops, Maute-ISIS remnants clash in Lanao del Sur

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur: The Philippine Army and some 24 remnants of the Maute-ISIS terrorists under Abu Dar Group clashed today, Thursday at the municipality of Sultan Domalondong, Lanao del Sur.

103rd Brigade commander Col. Romeo Brawner Jr. said the brigade conducted an operation in the area Wednesday 6:00 P.M. but the encounter started 8:10 Thursday morning.

Firefight is still ongoing as of this posting.

Brawner said an initial result of the firefight revealed that the Maute-ISIS group suffered an unconfirmed number of casualties while three soldiers, two from 55IB and one from 82IB, were wounded.

"We are calling on the public not to panic and not to evacuate because we have everything under control," he added.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Roseller Murillo, 1st Infantry Division and JTF Zampelan Commander, said, "The armed encounter is the result of our relentless campaign against Maute ISIS remnants and Abu Dar group."

"Rest assured that best medical facilities and treatment will be provided to our wounded troops," Murillo added. (RSP)