CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — In a major breakthrough against terrorism, government forces successfully served a warrant of arrest against a top regional most wanted individual identified as a member of the Dawlah Islamiya–Maute Group in Balo-i, Lanao del Norte, on October 21, 2025.
The joint law enforcement operation was carried out by personnel of the 1005th Maneuver Company, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 10, in coordination with the Munai and Balo-i Municipal Police Stations, the Provincial Intelligence Unit of Lanao del Norte Police Provincial Office, the Regional Intelligence Division, and the 44th Infantry Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, Philippine Army.
The arrested suspect was identified as alias “Waki,” 19 years old, married, jobless, and a resident of Barangay Talao, Piagapo, Lanao del Sur. He is listed as Priority Suspect Regional Level No. 9 (4th Quarter 2024) and tagged as Top 3 Regional Most Wanted Person.
Reports confirmed that alias “Waki” is a confirmed member of the Dawlah Islamiya–Maute Group, a known local terrorist organization responsible for attacks in parts of Lanao and neighboring provinces.
The suspect voluntarily surrendered to the 44th Infantry Battalion, which promptly notified law enforcement authorities. Verification revealed that “Waki” was the subject of a warrant of arrest for two counts of Murder and one count of Attempted Murder under Criminal Case Nos. 24-30018, 24-30019, and 24-30020, issued on October 18, 2024. There was no bail recommended for the two counts of Murder, while ₱120,000 was set for Attempted Murder.
Records show that the accused was involved in the ambush of two Army intelligence operatives from the 51st Infantry Battalion in Barangay Lininding, Munai, Lanao del Norte, on January 3, 2024.
Authorities ensured that the suspect was formally informed of the charges and his constitutional rights in a dialect he understood. He has since been presented before the issuing court for appropriate legal action. For security and operational reasons, authorities have requested that custody of the accused remain with the 44th Infantry Battalion.
PBGEN Christopher C. Abrahano, Acting Regional Director of Police Regional Office 10 (PRO-10), commended the coordination and swift action of the operating units.
“This arrest demonstrates our steadfast commitment to bringing lawless elements to justice. The dedication and coordination shown by our troops serve as a strong reminder that the long arm of the law will always reach those who threaten peace and security in our region,” Abrahano said.
The arrest marks another significant step in the government’s continuing campaign to dismantle local terrorist networks in Mindanao and sustain peace and order in the region.