Friday, July 15, 2016

Army clearing operations left 7 injured; operation vs. BIFF continues in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 15): Army clearing operations left 7 injured; operation vs. BIFF continues in Maguindanao

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao -- A total of seven soldiers were slightly injured during clearing operations in Datu Unsay and Shariff Aguak towns in Maguindanao following a brief fire fight between government forces and outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), the Army said.

Capt. Joann Petinglay, speaking for the 6th Infantry Division, said the seven soldiers were part of the security forces securing Army trainees undergoing immersion in conflict affected areas in Datu Unsay.

A 14-year-old girl was killed while three BIFF were also slain during the Wednesday morning skirmishes in Datu Unsay. No soldier was hurt in that clash.

But during clearing operations, Petinglay said, seven soldiers were hurt by improvised explosive devices set off by the BIFF.

Petinglay explained that elements of the 45th Infantry Battalion providing security for Army trainees clashed with about 40 BIFF under Commander Unos.

The 6th ID had to use air assets to drive away the lawless group.

Petinglay said the clearing operations Thursday night also led to the recovery of improvised bombs planted by the BIFF along a route leading to Barangay Kuloy in Shariff Aguak.

"The highway linking Cotabato City and Gen. Santos City is safe for commuters," Petinglay said, adding that the wounded soldiers only suffered minor wounds.

Petinglay said covert and overt operations against the lawless group will continue.

Meanwhile, about 200 families have fled to the town center of Datu Unsay town with government relief agencies providing food and water until their return.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=904551

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