AFP: 44 BIFF men slain in clashes

MAGUINDANAO, Philippines — At least 44 members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) were killed in gunfights with soldiers in Datu Saudi, Maguindanao last week, according to the military.

However, BIFF groups led by a certain Bongos and Karialan denied Besana’s statement, saying the 6th ID exaggerated its report to create the impression that the operations had weakened the BIFF.

“Only five were killed from among our men,” Amir, spokesman for the Karialan group, said.

The military said six BIFF men who tried to get near major roads in Barangays Lower Salbo and Kitango as local officials were preparing for a public consultation on the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law in Buluan town on Thursday were killed.     

Personnel of the 6th ID launched a ground offensive to drive away the bandits.