(FILE) an alleged high-ranking leader and bomb expert of the Dawlah Islamiyah-Hassan Group (DI-HG) was killed in a military operation in Barangay Satan, Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao del Sur on Sunday
Photo from Kampilan Trooper Updates, Philippine Army/Facebook
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ZAMBOANGA CITY — A wanted member of the Dawlah Islamiyah (DI) group was killed after a brief but intense shootout with government forces who were attempting to serve a warrant of arrest in Datu Abdullah Sangki, Maguindanao del Sur, authorities said.
Brigadier General Edgar L. Catu, commander of the Army’s 601st Infantry Brigade, identified the slain suspect as Norodin Andig, also known as “Kwag-Kwag,” who was facing charges of murder and frustrated murder.
Catu said a joint police and military team moved in on Andig’s residence in Barangay Kaya-Kaya on Sunday to implement an arrest warrant issued by RTC Branch 13 in Cotabato City. Instead of surrendering, Andig allegedly opened fire as he sensed authorities closing in.
“He fired his automatic rifle at the approaching troops,” Catu said, prompting government forces to return fire. The exchange was brief, but Andig was fatally wounded in the encounter.
Police Lt. Joel S. Lebrilla, chief of the Rajah Buayan Municipal Police Station, said Andig was a known DI member and had been linked to a string of shooting incidents across Maguindanao del Sur.
Catu said the operation highlighted the strong coordination between the police and the military in pursuing wanted individuals and maintaining peace in the region.
“This successful operation is proof of the united action and professionalism of our police and military. Through continuous coordination, we can further strengthen peace and security in our communities,” he said.
Meanwhile, Major General Jose Vladimir R. Cagara, commander of the 6th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Central, expressed gratitude to local residents who provided information that helped authorities locate the suspect.
“We are deeply grateful to the citizens who have shown concern and cooperation. Your trust and cooperation are essential to the successful implementation of the law and to maintaining order and safety in our communities,” Cagara said.
Authorities said JTF-Central will continue to support law enforcement operations aimed at suppressing criminality and sustaining peace and order in central Mindanao.
