MARANTAO, Lanao del Sur — Ten members of the Dawlah Islamiya–Maute Group (DI-MG), including a top leader, were killed in a decisive, intelligence-driven joint operation by government forces in Barangay Banga-Pantar in the early hours of April 17, 2026.
The operation, carried out at around 1:07 a.m., involved combined elements of the 103rd Infantry (HARIBON) Brigade under the 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division of the Philippine Army, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (CIDG-BARMM), Police Regional Office-BAR, and other inter-agency partners. Authorities said the mission was aimed at serving multiple warrants of arrest against members of the armed group facing charges of murder, frustrated homicide, homicide, kidnapping, and serious illegal detention.
Upon arrival at the group’s hideout, government forces encountered armed resistance, triggering a firefight that lasted for about an hour. All ten suspects were neutralized, while no casualties or injuries were reported on the side of government troops.
Among those killed was Amerol Mangoranca, also known as “Usman,” identified as the ameer or leader of the DI-Maute Group. Also slain was sub-leader Benjie Amir, alias “Muslih,” along with several other members considered high-value security threats in early 2026. Of the ten fatalities, six were male and four were female, with two of the women yet to be identified.
Other identified fatalities included Jamail Ibrahim alias “Orak,” Fahmia Aminodin alias “Pakmin,” Sohaile Borud Bato alias “Nasif/Muslim,” Mohaimen Aragon alias “Turab,” and Nahara Khairiya Hamim alias “Yaqiyna/Polindan.”
Authorities recovered at least five firearms from the encounter site, including M16 and M4 rifles, an M1 Garand rifle, and a caliber .38 revolver. Also seized were a hand grenade and several components used in the fabrication of improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
In the course of the operation, troops rescued a wounded infant, believed to be around one year old, who was immediately transported to a hospital for urgent medical attention.
Military and police officials confirmed that the neutralized individuals were directly linked to the January 23, 2026 ambush in Barangay Lininding, Munai, Lanao del Norte, which resulted in the deaths of four soldiers and left another wounded. Authorities said the latest operation effectively neutralized all those responsible for the attack.
Following the clash, security forces heightened alert levels in the area, with Task Force Marawi intensifying checkpoint operations and deploying additional personnel to ensure public safety and conduct follow-up operations.
Brigadier General Billy Dela Rosa, commander of the 103rd Infantry Brigade, described the operation as a significant blow to the terrorist group.
“This victory is a testament to the courage and unwavering dedication of our troops. Their actions delivered a crushing blow to the Maute Group and reflect the strength of our joint and inter-agency collaboration. We honor the sacrifices of our soldiers and remain resolute in defending our people against all threats to peace and security,” Dela Rosa said.
Meanwhile, Major General Yegor Rey P. Barroquillo Jr., commander of the 1st Infantry Division, emphasized the broader implications of the successful operation.
“Today marks a defining chapter in our campaign against terrorism in Lanao. The neutralization of the DI-Maute Group’s top leadership, the same network responsible for the Marawi siege and years of violence, demonstrates our unwavering resolve. This is not merely a tactical success; it is justice served for every fallen soldier, every grieving family, and every community that suffered under terror, including the victims of the Munai ambush,” Barroquillo said.
The military said the operation underscores the effectiveness of synchronized military, police, and intelligence efforts in dismantling terrorist networks in Mindanao. It added that intensified operations will continue to prevent any resurgence of extremist groups and to sustain peace and stability in the region.
Authorities expect to release further details as clearing operations and verification processes continue.