The black flag of ISIS was raised in the Philippines. At least 103 people died in the city of Marawi on the southern island of Mindanao in less than a week, as ISIL fighters, were involved in violent clashes with government troops, and martial law was declared throughout the island.
Local resident, Chico Usman said that the militants in the afternoon of may 24, burst into a Muslim city with a population of about 200 thousand people in masks and with guns. "Everyone was shocked and ran to their homes," he said, adding that they heard shooting until the next morning.
According to the representative of Armed forces of the Philippines (AFP) clashes between government forces and militants led to the fact that 19 civilians, 11 soldiers and four policemen were killed on Sunday. AFP confirmed that 61 militants were also killed. In a separate incident 8 other people, who are believed to have fled from the city, was found dead in a ravine. Witnesses said the victims were asked to read a Muslim prayer, reports the Philippines. Those who failed were killed by armed men. Philippines is predominantly a Catholic country, but in Mindanao, there is a significant Muslim population.
The latest violence broke out on may 23 after the military began an operation against Isnilon of Hapilon, Filipino militant leader, who last year was appointed Emir of ISIS in Southeast Asia.
"What is happening in Mindanao, is no longer a rebellion of Filipino citizens, it transformed into an invasion of foreign terrorists," - said at a press briefing last week, Philippine General solicitor Jose Calida. "They want to make Mindanao a part of the Caliphate."
sections: Politics, World News, Accidents, Accidents |