CAMP SIONGCO, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte (June 22, 2025) — Two suspected members of the Dawlah Islamiyah – Hassan Group were killed while two others were captured after a pre-dawn armed encounter with government troops in Barangay Libutan, Mamasapano, Maguindanao del Sur.
The military operation, launched past 1:00 AM, involved the 6th Infantry (Redskin) Battalion, the 33rd Infantry (Makabayan) Battalion, and other units under the 601st Infantry (Unifier) Brigade. It was triggered by intelligence reports that members of the local terror group were gathering to plan attacks, including the planting of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in populated areas.
Killed during the clash were Tahir Salim Suweb, 41, of Barangay Baka, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte, and Benladin Adi Kamid, 23, of Macasampen, Guindulungan, Maguindanao del Sur. Captured while wounded were Junjun Kayogen Leosen, 37, from Barangay Salbu, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, and Rasul Mendoza Kariman, 31, of Barangay Bagan, Guindulungan. The two were immediately brought to public hospitals for treatment.
Troops recovered from the scene two M16A1 rifles, a .45 caliber pistol, IED-making components, an unexploded ordnance (UXO), several mobile phones, a Bushnell monocular scope, a damaged bipod, communication equipment, and a female clutch bag containing fake IDs.
Brigadier General Edgar L. Catu, commander of the 601st Brigade, ordered intensified pursuit operations against the remaining members of the terror group who escaped during the encounter.
“We will not stop until all remnants of this group are brought to justice,” said Brig. Gen. Catu. “Those killed and captured today are directly linked to the brutal murder of three Batangueño businessmen found dead in Barangay Nabundas, Shariff Saydona Mustapha last May 30, as well as multiple incidents of robbery and killings to fund the group’s operations. They are also suspects in the deadly ambush that killed four soldiers in Datu Hoffer in March last year.”
Major General Donald M. Gumiran, commander of the 6th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Central, lauded the swift action of the troops, which thwarted a possible terror attack on civilians in Central Mindanao.
“Once again, our troops have saved innocent lives. The timely response of our forces prevented a planned act of terror in this peaceful part of Mindanao,” said Maj. Gen. Gumiran. “We will never be intimidated. This victory is for peace and the safety of our people.”
The military, in coordination with police forces, continues to hunt down the remaining members of the Dawlah Islamiyah – Hassan Group to end the threat they pose to the region.