Philippine security forces have killed 10 suspected Islamist militants after they resisted arrest during an early morning operation in the country’s restive southern region.
Authorities said the confrontation followed an attempt to execute arrest warrants against members of an armed group linked to extremist networks.
Security operatives moved into an area near Marantao in southern Philippines before dawn to arrest suspected militants.
The operation targeted individuals facing charges including murder, homicide, and kidnapping.
According to police, the suspects opened fire as officers attempted to carry out the arrests.
The confrontation escalated into a gun battle that lasted about an hour between militants and a combined team of police and soldiers.
Among those killed was Amerol Mangoranca, identified as the leader of the Maute-Dawlah Islamiya group.
Authorities said the group operates in the country’s Muslim-majority south and maintains links to extremist organisations inspired by Islamic State.
The clash also involved the militant leader’s wife and three other women, who were among those killed.
Weapons Recovered, Infant Rescued
Security forces reported no casualties on their side.
After the operation, troops recovered firearms and explosives from the scene.
A military report also confirmed that an infant was rescued unharmed during the exchange of fire.
Links to Past Attacks and Extremist Network
Authorities suspect the group carried out a January attack that killed four soldiers and injured another.
Military officials said the militants belonged to a broader network responsible for years of violence in the region.
The group has ties to fighters involved in the Marawi Siege, one of the deadliest militant uprisings in the Philippines.
In May 2017, hundreds of militants seized the city of Marawi, aiming to establish a regional caliphate.
Government forces retook the city after a five-month battle that left more than 1,000 people dead and destroyed large parts of the area.
The latest operation highlights ongoing security challenges in the southern Philippines, where remnants of extremist groups continue to regroup despite military efforts.
Authorities say they will sustain operations to dismantle militant networks and prevent future attacks.
