GOVERNMENT forces on Thursday, January 24, seized a camp of the Maute Terror Group remnants after a fierce 10-hour firefight in Sultan Dumalondong, Lanao del Sur.

Three alleged Maute terrorists were killed according to the locals. The terrorist group is believed to be led by Abu Dhar, the appointed leader of the DI-Lanao group.

Lieutenant Colonel Ian Ignes, commanding officer of the 55th Infantry Battalion said, said local chief executives and residents provided the information about the group in the area.

The terrorists have been hiding in the hinterlands of Lanao del Sur, where the group is well versed with the terrain. Despite this, Colonel Romeo Brawner Jr., commander of the 103rd Infantry Brigade, said the troops were still able to gain ground and managed to penetrate their defensive lines.

The terrorists’ lair reveals defensive positions which include trenches and bunkers, while a training camp was also found hundred meters away from the their defensive lines.

“We are giving them a chance to live a peaceful and meaningful life. We are calling on the remaining Maute-IS fighters to surrender peacefully to the nearest military installation before the next combat operations falls into your doorsteps. Take this offer now before it’s too late,” Brawner said.