Three individuals linked to the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and Dawlah Islamiyah (DI) surrendered and turned over several high-powered firearms and weapons to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).
The NBI facilitated the safe surrender and extraction of the three individuals during an operation conducted over the weekend in Mamasapano, Maguindanao del Sur.
NBI agents assigned in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), Central Mindanao Regional Office, Sarangani District Office, Counter Terrorism Division, and allied security units executed the operation.
This action was taken based on intelligence reports suggesting that specific individuals linked to extremist groups active in the region had shown a desire to withdraw from armed activities and submit themselves to government authorities.
According to intelligence sources, the three individuals sought a secure and neutral channel for surrender due to fears of possible retaliation from remaining BIFF and DI elements in the area. Acting on the information, authorities conducted a protective extraction operation to ensure the safety of both the surrendering individuals and the operational team.
The subjects who voluntarily surrendered were reportedly members of the BIFF/DI Karialan faction operating in Mamasapano.
The firearms and weapons that were turned over include:
• One (1) Barrett Rifle (.50 caliber)
• One (1) M79 Grenade Launcher
• One (1) M203 Grenade Launcher Tube
• One (1) Mosin Rifle with magazine
• Two (2) rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition
Following the successful extraction, the three individuals were safely transported to a secure facility for documentation, initial debriefing, and security processing.
NBI Director Melvin Matibag commended his personnel for the successful and peaceful outcome of the operation.
“This successful surrender demonstrates that even those who have once taken the path of armed extremism can still choose peace. The National Bureau of Investigation remains committed to supporting government efforts that provide safe and lawful avenues for individuals who wish to abandon violence and reintegrate into society. Through cooperation with our partner security agencies and the community, we will continue to work toward lasting peace and stability in the Bangsamoro region,” he said.
