SUSPECTED Islamist militants ambushed an army vehicle in Lanao del Norte at around 10 am today, Jan. 23, killing four soldiers and wounding a fifth.
Initial reports indicate the troops were traveling in a blue Toyota Avanza through Purok 1, Barangay Lininding in the municipality of Munai when they came under heavy fire. Military officials believe the attackers are members of the Dawlah Islamiya–Maute Group.
The military has withheld the identities of the fallen and wounded soldiers pending notification of their families.
Troops from the Army’s 44th Infantry Battalion, under the 1st Infantry Division’s 2nd Mechanized Brigade, rushed to the scene to recover the casualties and provide medical aid to the survivor.
Clearing and pursuit operations are currently underway as government forces hunt down the attackers. Authorities are also working with local officials to secure the area and protect residents.
