Soldiers overrun terrorists’ arms factory

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — Army soldiers overran a suspected firearms factory of a local terrorist organization in Marogong, Lanao del Sur on Saturday.

Soldiers of the Army’s 64th Infantry Battalion (IB) raided the camp of the Dawlah Islamiyah-Maute Group based on information that the terror group is manufacturing firearms in a remote area in Barangay Pabrica.

Lt. Col. Jerry Gaviola, chief of the 64IB, said no firefight occurred during the raid.

Gaviola said  the terrorists escaped after sensing the arrival of the soldiers.

Troopers recovered a cache of war materials and equipment used in manufacturing high-powered firearms including sniper rifles.

The raiding team also seized milling, welding and lathe machines and a drill press as well as materials for making weapons.

The team secured the area to ensure the safety of the community.

The Army said the recovery of the war materials and arms fabrication equipment prevented the terror group from engaging in gunrunning activities to support its operation.