Three alleged members of a lawless group were wounded while 21 others were captured in a firefight in Aleosan, North Cotabato.

According to the Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom), troops of the 34th Infantry Battalion launched a military operation after receiving information that an armed group was heading to Sitio Tubak in Barangay Pagangan on board two multicabs, a pickup, and three motorcycles.

The group was believed to be that of alias “Nasser” and alias “Montasser.”

The troops engaged around 30 armed men in a firefight that lasted for about an hour.

Three armed men were wounded and 21 others were captured. A government soldier was also wounded and was brought to the hospital for treatment.

Authorities also seized several firearms, including five M16 rifles; two M14 rifles; a grenade; seven bandoliers; ammunitions; and the group’s vehicles.

Lt. Gen. William Gonzales, commander of the Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom), commended the Joint Task Force (JTF) Central for the immediate action that resulted in the significant accomplishment.

“I extend my warmest congratulations to JTF Central especially to the responding troops. Your heroic action is an unequivocal reflection of your heroism and selflessness for the country. May your values be a compass for the many,” WestMinCom Commander, Lt. Gen. William Gonzales, said.