137 Filipino terrorists neutralised in Jan-Mar

Thanks to government troops' dedication and support from the local government, say the Philippine military.

Of the 22 remaining communist guerilla fronts, only three remain active, while 19 are considered weakened and nearing dismantling, the Philippine military say. (Photo: Via Akhbar Al Aan)

QUEZON CITY: A total of 137 communist and Moro terrorists have been neutralised by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) following successful focused military operations across the country in the first quarter of this year. 

The AFP, in a statement Sunday, said they neutralised 82 regular members of communist terrorist groups (CTGs). 

Of these, 17 were killed in combat operations, 20 were apprehended or captured and 45 surrendered to government forces. 

The AFP also gained 210 firearms during encounters and 109 through surrenders. Moreover, troops seized 87 anti-personnel mines (APMs) and discovered 51 encampments.

Of the 22 remaining guerilla fronts of the CTGs, only three remain active, while 19 are considered weakened and nearing dismantling. 

The terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group, on the other hand, lost 30 of its members as 28 surrendered and two were captured. AFP troops also captured six firearms during encounters and gained 29 through surrenders.

Meanwhile, the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) terror group continued to suffer losses as three members were killed in combat operations while 18 surrendered to government troops. The BIFF also lost 64 firearms and nine APMs.  

Further, three members of the pro-ISIS terrorist group, Daulah Islamiyah or Maute Group, were killed in focused military operations, while one surrendered. The AFP also gained one firearm, while three APMs were seized. 

These significant tactical victories against the CTGs and Moro terrorist groups were made possible by the dedication and commitment of AFP troops with the support of local government units and other law-enforcement agencies, said the AFP.