Authorities Arrest Local Terrorist in Maguindanao del Sur
COTABATO CITY — Authorities successfully apprehended a key member of a local terrorist group in Maguindanao del Sur during a law enforcement operation on Wednesday, sources said. This arrest highlights the ongoing efforts to combat terrorism in the region.
The operation took place just four days after the Army’s 6th Infantry Division neutralized two members of Dawlah Islamiya and detained two others in Mamasapano town, also in Maguindanao del Sur. The early arrest of the local terrorist marks a significant step in the campaign against extremist activities.
Oplan Pagtugis Targets Suspected Terrorist
Brig. Gen. Jaysen de Guzman, police director of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, confirmed that police launched “Oplan Pagtugis” in Barangay Kaya-Kaya, Datu Abdullah Sangki town. The operation led to the capture of a suspect known as “Abu Usama,” who also goes by the names Junard Darino, Jayrol Darino, and Usman Abdullah.
Authorities revealed that Abu Usama is wanted for multiple serious crimes, including murder, illegal possession of firearms and explosives, and carnapping. Intelligence reports indicate that he is a founding member of the Dawlah Islamiyah – Soccsksargen Maguid Group, which had previously operated across South Cotabato, Sarangani, and Sultan Kudarat.
Continuing Terrorist Activities After Leadership Loss
Following the death of his former group leader in 2019, Abu Usama aligned with the Dawlah Islamiya-Hassan Group based in Maguindanao. He reportedly continued engaging in subversive and violent acts, further destabilizing the area.
Currently, the suspect is held by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) in Maguindanao and is scheduled for presentation before local courts that issued warrants against him.
“This arrest demonstrates our steadfast commitment to track down criminals involved in terrorism and organized crime,” Brig. Gen. de Guzman stated. Local leaders noted that sustained law enforcement campaigns are crucial to ensuring peace and security in the region.
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