Two members of Dawlah Islamiyah–Hassan Group linked to the killing of three goat traders from Batangas were killed in a military operation in Barangay Libutan, Mamasapano, Maguindanao del Sur, early Sunday.
The military confirmed the operation was launched after receiving reports of a gathering of local terrorists allegedly planning to plant improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in crowded areas.
Brigadier General Edgar Catu, commander of the 601st Infantry Brigade, identified the fatalities as Tahir Salim Suweb, 41, of Barangay Baka, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte, and Benladin Adi Kamid, 23, of Macasampen, Guindulungan, Maguindanao del Sur.
Authorities said the suspects were directly involved in the brutal murder of three goat traders from Batangas, who were found buried in a rubber plantation in Barangay Nabundas, Shariff Saydona Mustapha on May 30.
Two other suspects, who were also reportedly involved in the killing, were captured after sustaining injuries during the clash. They were identified as Junjun Kayogen Leosen of Barangay Salbu, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, and Rasul Mendoza Kariman of Barangay Bagan, Guindulungan.
The investigation continues as authorities work to uncover further details surrounding the case and possible future threats.
