From GMA News (Mar 21): AFP: Clearing ops vs. BIFF may end next week
The Armed Forces of the Philippines on Saturday said clearing operations against the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters may end next week.
In a phone interview with GMA News Online, AFP spokeperson Brig. Gen. Joselito Kakilala said that after the clearing operations, the military will conduct "holding operations."
He explained that during the holding operations, troops will make sure that the area is safe enough for residents to return to their homes. Military officials will also coordinate with local government officials who will decide if its is safe for the residents to come back, he added.
"Siguro next week, we will start the holding operations," he said.
Meanwhile, he noted that since the start of the operations, 139 rebels have been killed. Of the number, 52 have been identified, he added.
On the other hand, 53 rebels were wounded while 12 have been captured, apprehended or surrendered, Kakilala said.
On the government side, six were killed in action, while 33 were injured.
The Joint Task Force Central Mindanao, meanwhile, has captured three major and five minor BIFF camps.
The military has launched offensive operations against Usman and the members of the BIFF involved in the Jan. 25 encounter with the Philippine National Police Special Action Force in Barangay Tukanalipao in Mamasapano town. The encounter cost the lives of 44 SAF troopers.
The targets of the operation were Malaysian terrorists Zulkifli bin Hir alias Marwan and Amin Baco and Usman. Marwan was believed to have been killed during the operation but Usman managed to escape.
The military offensives are being conducted in four towns in Maguindanao: Salibo, Pagatin, Mamasapano and Shariff Aguak, or the “SPMS box”, where BIFF members are believed to have retreated with Usman.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/456609/news/regions/afp-clearing-ops-vs-biff-may-end-next-week
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