ZAMBOANGA CITY — Philippine Marine soldiers vowed to continue to advance counter-terrorism operations in Maguindanao del Norte after four members of the Dawlah Islamiyah (DI) including a high-value individual, were killed on Monday following an encounter with Marine soldiers in Sitio Palao, Barangay Barira in Barira municipality.

 1st Marine Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Romulo D. Quemado II, said yesterday they will continue to hunt terrorists and call for their surrender to ensure peace and security in Maguindanao del Norte.

Quemado said, “On Monday, victory was proof of the continued dedication of our soldiers in combating security threats in the province.”

 At least, four DI members including a high-value individual, were killed on Monday during an encounter with elements of Marine Battalion Landing Team 2 (MBLT-2), 65th Force Recon Company, and other military operatives in Sitio Palao, Barangay Barira in Barira town.

 Lt. Col. John A. dela Cruz, head of MBLT-2, recounted that at around 5:45 a.m. on Monday, they encountered several members of the local terrorist group led by Emarudin Kasan Kulaw, alias "Alpha King," who is recognized as a sub-leader of the Dawlah Islamiyah-Hassan Group.

Dela Cruz said that after the encounter, the soldiers scoured the area and found four DI members’ lifeless bodies. 

They were later identified as Mustapha Kasan Kulaw, alias Abu Saiden, a notorious member of the group; alias Pudin, son of Alpha King; alias Abdullah; and another unidentified person.

The soldiers also recovered two M16 rifles and a cal. 45 pistol, various types of ammunition, magazines, two bandoliers, three cellphones, two anti-personnel mines and other items. 

For his part, 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division and Joint Task Force Central Commander Maj. Gen. Donald M. Gumiran commended the personnel of Marine Battalion Landing Team 2 and 65th Force Recon Company for the successful operation.

He also urged the remaining members of Dawlah Islamiyah to cease their armed struggle and return to the government so that they could live peacefully.

Gumiran emphasized, “Instead of continuing with pointless violence, it would be better if you returned to the government and lived peacefully. Our government is here to help you and give you a new opportunity for a better future.”