4 suspected rebels killed in operation in Maguindanao del Norte

MANILA — Four suspected members, including a supposed sub-leader, of the rebel group Dawlah Islamiya were killed in a joint police and military operation in Maguindanao del Norte on Friday afternoon, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said. 

The PNP said the authorities were serving arrest warrants against suspected DI sub-leader Yusa Ganoy and his three companions in Barangay Tapayan, Sultan Mastura, when the purported rebels allegedly resisted and opened fire, triggering a brief exchange of gunfire.

The suspects were allegedly linked to bombing incidents in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat as well as killings, arson, and other violent activities in Maguindanao del Sur.  

PNP said security measures have been heightened in the Bangsamoro region following the incident for possible retaliatory acts.