Improvised explosive device recovered in Maguindanao

ZAMBOANGA CITY - Government troops recovered an improvised explosive device (IED) in Ampatuan, Maguindanao on the morning of January 4, 2021, the WestMinCom Commander said.

“Troops of the 1st Mechanized Infantry Battalion were conducting clearing operations when they discovered an IED made of 105mm projectile in Barangay Salman of the municipality of Ampatuan,” said Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Jr., Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

“I commend the troops of the Joint Task Force Central under Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy for remaining steadfast in securing the people of central Mindanao. Likewise, congratulations to the soldiers of the 1st Mechanized Infantry Battalion for this laudable accomplishment,” Lt. Gen. Vinluan, Jr. stated.

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Cresencio Sanchez, Jr., Commander of the 1MechBn said they immediately coordinated with the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team for the proper handling of the explosive.

“We also alerted the Patrol Bases and Detachments for the possible enemy sighting,” said Lt. Col. Sanchez, Jr.

1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade Officer-In-Charge Col. Ferdinand Lacadin said an investigation will be conducted to identify the perpetrators of this foiled IED attack.

Likewise, Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, Commander of the Joint Task Force Central condemned this act of terrorism that put the lives of innocent civilians in grave danger.

“They continue to launch desperate attacks with blatant disregard to the safety of the people, thus, we continue to intensify our operations to thwart their inhumane ploys,” Maj. Gen. Uy added.

Troops continue to scour the area.