ZAMBOANGA CITY – Three affiliates of the Dawlah Islamiya – Maute Group (DI-MG) have voluntarily surrendered to authorities amidst ongoing military operations in Lanao del Sur, as reported by the military on Friday.
Lieutenant Colonel Abel Potutan, Commander of the 64th Infantry Battalion (64IB), stated that the three individuals, who have been active since 2017 following the group’s siege of Marawi City, surrendered in Barangay Matalin, Malabang, Lanao del Sur, on Thursday.
The surrendering individuals also relinquished three high-powered firearms, which include a modified M-14 rifle and two Garand rifles, along with magazines and ammunition.
Potutan underscored the significance of this surrender, characterizing it as “a critical advancement” in the government’s ongoing campaign to dismantle the DI-MG in Lanao del Sur.
He noted that this incident underscores the effectiveness of the 64IB’s operations in mitigating threats and promoting peace in the region.
“This achievement exemplifies the commitment of the 64IB to ensure lasting peace and security within its jurisdiction,” he added.
The military continues to advocate for the remaining members of the DI-MG to surrender and reintegrate into society as part of the government’s peace and reconciliation initiatives.
