AFP to deploy more K-9 units in Butig

MANILA, Philippines - The military will deploy more bomb-sniffing dogs to Butig in Lanao del Norte to help clear traps and improvised explosive devices (IED) left by the Maute group.

The K-9 units will speed up the clearing operation so residents can safely return home, according to Col. Edgard Arevalo, chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs office.

Arevalo said the town has been cleared of militants, but residents have not been allowed to return yet for their own safety.

AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said the military is working to put life in Butig back to normal amid continuous operations against the Maute group.

Padilla said farmers have complained that they work hard only for the Mautes to seize their produce during harvest time.

He said they wanted to speed up the clearing operation so residents could have their life back.

Padilla said the Mautes might have left some IED and traps, especially in areas where the clashes occurred. He said residents should be assured of their safety when they return home.

He said the troops are making sure the Maute group would no longer return to the area.