7 suspected BIFF gunmen nabbed in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 9, 2020): 7 suspected BIFF gunmen nabbed in Maguindanao (By Noel Punzalan)

SEIZED. The firearms confiscated from seven alleged members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters in Datu Hoffer, Maguindanao on Tuesday (Dec. 8, 2020). Those arrested initially introduced themselves as members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front 105th base command when accosted but failed to present identification documents associating themselves with the MILF organization. (Photos courtesy of 6ID)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – Seven suspected combatants of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) were arrested in Datu Hoffer, Maguindanao on Tuesday, the military here reported Wednesday.

Lt. Col. Rogelio Gabi, Army’s 40th Infantry Battalion commander, said that the seven BIFF men were nabbed on Tuesday afternoon in Sitio Barugot, Barangay Mother Tuayan, Datu Hoffer, after posing as members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) 105th base command.

“However, when asked for proper identification, the armed group could not present any identification card or papers associating them with the MILF,” Gabi said, prompting Army troopers to arrest the seven and confiscate their firearms.

Seized from the group were two M1 Garand rifles, an M14 rifle, an M4 rifle, and ammunition.

Gabi said all those arrested were brought to the Maguindanao police headquarters for proper interrogation.

“The police is yet to determine what particular faction of three BIFF groups in the province the seven belongs,” Gabi said, referring to the BIFF units of Kagi Karialan, Abu Toraife, and Kumander Bugos that are operating in the vast Ligausan Marsh at the borders of Maguindanao, North Cotabato, and Sultan Kudarat provinces.

Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander, lauded the 40IB for the arrest of the suspected BIFF men and confiscation of firearms.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1124256