Seven suspected BIFF members arrested in Maguindanao, military says

A total of seven suspected members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) were arrested in Datu Hoffer, Maguindanao on Tuesday.

Armed Forces Western Mindanao Command chief Lieutenant General Corleto Vinluan Jr. on Wednesday said troops from the 40th Infantry Battalion were conducting clearing operations at Sitio Barugot, Barangay Mother Tuayan when they intercepted the suspects who allegedly introduced themselves as members of the 105th Base Command of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces.

"When our troops asked for any proof that they are legitimate members of the said group, subject personalities failed to show their identification, which prompted the troops to apprehend them and confiscate their firearms and other war [materiel],” Vinluan said.

Those arrested were brought to Maguindanao police for proper disposition.

Two Garand rifles, one M14 rifle, one M4 and other war materiel were confiscated from the suspects, the military said.

Vinluan said the items were placed under the custody of the Division Tactical Command Post at the Old Provincial Capitol, Shariff Aguak for safekeeping.

Meanwhile, Colonel Ferdinand Lacadin, officer-in-charge of the 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade, tasked the 40IB and 1st Mechanized Battalion to continue their combat clearing operations in the area to neutralize more BIFF militants.

Joint Task Force Central chief Major General Juvymax Uy, on the other hand, hailed the troops for successfully arresting the BIFF militants. — Anna Felicia Bajo/RSJ, GMA News