Security forces on alert due to BIFF threat in Maguindanao

From InterAksyon (Jul 7): Security forces on alert due to BIFF threat in Maguindanao



Soldiers and policemen in Maguinanao are on alert status, 7 July 2015.DENNIS ARCON/InterAksyon.com

The entire forces of the 6th Infantry Division in Maguindanao is on alert due to the resurgent threat of elements of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), splinter group of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) now in peace negotiations with the Philippine government.

Four separate BIFF attacks were reported in the towns of Datu Hoffer and Shariff Aguak after military and police camps were peppered with bullets, resulting in the death of one Army corporal.

BIFF spokesman Abu Misrie Mama also immediately claimed responsibility for the attacks.

Aside from these four incidents, a grenade was lobbed at the house of Datu Unsay acting mayor Monawara Ampatuan also in the town of Shariff Aguak early Monday morning. This resulted in the wounding of a carpenter, Mandatu Pronogero. Investigation on this incident continues.

Homemade bomb found by roadside

In a related development, part of the national highway in Datu Saudi has been closed to traffic after a homemade bomb was discovered at past 6 a.m. Monday. The bomb was made from bullets of an 81-millimeter mortar.

In the town of Pikit, North Cotabato, killed in a shootout at 6:15 this morning was a certain PO2 Anwar Batingkay.

The victim sustained gunshot wounds in the body, leading to his death.

Batingkay is said to be part of Pikit-PNP and an intelligence office. Motive for the killing is still unknown.

Last week, two policemen were gunned down in the town of Datu Salibo, Maguindanao. The perpetrators are still unknown.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/113738/security-forces-on-alert-due-to-biff-threat-in-maguindanao