ILIGAN City ― Following the successful neutralization of a key Dawlah-Islamiyah Maute Group (DI-MG) member last week, government forces are intensifying their manhunt for the final three individuals remaining on the military’s target list in the Lanao provinces.

The focus of the operation remains on tracking down the last three remnants of the fractured terror group after the decisive encounter in Sitio Palangakon, Barangay Pawak, Salvador, Lanao del Norte, on Sunday, Nov. 9.

Neutralization of ‘Ibra’ clears the path

The military confirmed that the individual neutralized in the operation, identified by the alias ‘Ibra’ (Ibrahim Ampaso), was the fourth-ranked member on the DI-MG’s target list. His neutralization leaves only three individuals from the original list still at large.

“With Ibra’s neutralization, three remain on the list,” confirmed Maj. Gen. Yegor Rey P. Barroquillo, Commander of the Ist Infantry (Tabak) Division. “Ibra” was a known DI-Maute foot soldier reportedly operating under the late Mas’od.

The encounter site yielded significant firepower, including two M16A1 rifles, two M14 rifles, and one M203 grenade launcher, suggesting the remaining members are likely still armed.

HOT GUNS. A cache of weapons, including M16A1 and M14 rifles, an M203 grenade launcher, and communication devices, seized by government troops after the military operation that neutralized Dawlah-Islamiyah member alias Ibra in Lanao del Norte. Photo by Bonita L. Ermac

Scattered and hiding, but still a risk

General Barroquillo reiterated that the DI-Maute no longer possesses a cohesive structure or leadership, stating the remaining members are “scattered and hiding” and lack a singular ‘emir.’

Despite their disorganized state, the military is taking no chances.

“We have not monitored ongoing extortion activities linked to them recently, but we cannot discount the risk while any members remain — that is why I have directed our brigades in the Lanao provinces to continue hunting down the remaining DI-Maute remnants,” Barroquillo said.

This operational directive signals a renewed, concentrated push by the 2nd Mechanized Brigade and the Joint Task Group Magbalantay to completely eradicate the last traces of the terror group.

Brig. Gen. Ronel O. Manalo, Commander of the JTG Magbalantay, vowed to maintain pressure on the extremists.

“We remain committed to lawful, intelligence-driven operations to protect our communities,” he stated.

The troops of the 3rd Scout Ranger Battalion, instrumental in the recent success, were recognized on Nov. 12, underscoring the military’s resolve and morale as the focused manhunt proceeds.