ILIGAN CITY — Government troops raided and dismantled a suspected terrorist arms manufacturing site in Barangay Pabrica, Marogong, Lanao del Sur on April 11, dealing a major blow to the rearming capability of the Daulah-Islamiyah Maute Group (DI-MG).
The operation, carried out by the Army's 64th Infantry Battalion under the 101st Infantry Brigade, was based on validated intelligence identifying the area as a DI-MG stronghold.
Led by Lt. Col. Jerry B. Gaviola, troops uncovered a cache of firearms components and fabrication equipment believed to have been used in producing high-powered weapons.
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The seized inventory featured a milling machine and two lathe machines, alongside a drill press and welding equipment used to facilitate weapons production.
Accompanying the tools were 50 pieces of .50 caliber barrels and various Barrett rifle accessories, ranging from suppressors and magazines to 20 wooden frames and optical scopes. A 60mm tube and a live grenade were likewise recovered from the site.
Military officials said the recovery significantly degrades the group’s ability to rearm and launch future attacks.
Troops continue securing the area and clearing the site to ensure no weapons remain and to protect nearby communities.
Brig. Gen. Yasser Bara, commander of the 101st Infantry Brigade, commended the troops for the successful mission.
“The recovery of these war materials and fabrication equipment is a significant step in denying terrorist remnants the capability to rearm and threaten communities,” Bara said.
Maj. Gen. Yegor Rey P. Barroquillo Jr. echoed the praise, stressing the military’s commitment to sustaining peace and security in the region.
“This operation shows our firm resolve to prevent terrorist groups from regrouping and rearming. We will continue to intensify intelligence-driven operations to keep our communities safe,” he said.
The Philippine Army said the operation is part of ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist networks, prevent the reuse of enemy resources, and sustain peace across Lanao provinces.
