Army, police seize 17 rifles from rival MILF groups in Maguindanao

A joint police and Army team seized 17 assault rifles from two rival MILF groups in Barangay Damabago, Maguindanao del Sur on Thursday, February 6, after an exchange of gunfire.

The gunfight involved MILF commanders Marato Felmin and Baguindali Felmin, who are related but dispute control over strategic land.

Innocent villagers were displaced due to the conflict, with at least 50 families fleeing their homes in Barangay Mileb.

Soldiers and police intervened and arrested 17 MILF members for questioning before releasing them upon request of the government and MILF coordinating committee.

Around 50 families had returned home by Friday after the Army assured their safety, while a platoon was deployed to secure the area.