GOVERNMENT troops encountered about 24 suspected members of the Maute terror group in Sultan Dumalondong, Lanao del Sur at 8:10 a.m. on Thursday, January 24.
Three soldiers were wounded, two from 55th Infantry Battalion and one from 82nd Infantry Battalion. An undetermined number of casualties from the Maute group, which is inspired by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (Isis), were observed.
"Casualties were immediately extricated from encounter site for medical treatment," said Colonel Romeo Brawner, 103rd Infantry Brigade Commander.
"We are calling on the public not to panic and not to evacuate because we have everything under control", Brawner added.
Major General Roseller Murillo, 1st Infantry Division and JTF Zampelan Commander, said the armed encounter was the result of its "relentless campaign against Maute-Isis remnants and Abu Dar group".
"Rest assured that best medical facilities and treatment will be provided to our wounded troops," he added.