The estimated 500-strong Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters
(BIFF) has split into two with the new faction renouncing the association of
BIFF leaders with the enthusiastic Islamic State (ISIS).
The BIFF is a faction of the mainstream Moro Islamic
Liberation Front (MILF) that bolted out several years ago following the death
of MILF founding chair Hashim Salamat.
The BIFF, operating solely in the peripheries of Maguindanao
province, is not included in the ongoing government–MILF peace accord.
Speaking over local radio outlets here Friday, the new
faction's self-proclaimed spokesman is Abu Amir who have parted from the
ISIS-leaning ideology of BIFF leader Imam Bongos and his spokesman Abu Misry
and his bunch of loyal field commanders.
"We are not to be swayed by the ISIS
ideology because we adhere to the cause of the Moro struggle and teachings of
the Koran," Amir said.
He said their faction, whose appellation remains unknown,
has recognized Imam Minimbang, also known as Ustadz Karialan, as their new
leader.
Both Bongos and Karialan are wanted by the law for various
crimes ranging from multiple murder, harassment, and collection of
revolutionary taxes from poor farming communities in the province.
Misry, in a separate interview, denied the split of the BIFF
hierarchy and has pointed to the military as the one behind the move to cast a
scenario of power struggle within their organization.
Misry did not elaborate on the matter.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=906304
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