MILF denies joint ops with gov’t in Maguindanao

DAVAO CITY – A high-ranking leader of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) clarified that there are no joint operations between its Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces and government troops in Marawi and Maguindanao.

“Officially and formally, there is no such thing as joint operation to be conducted by the MILF forces and government forces in Maguindanao,” said Mohagher Iqbal in a statement on Sunday, Sept. 10.

Iqbal clarified that on August 2, Abu Toraife’s Jamaatul Mujahiren Wal-Ansar “declined and opened fire at the emissary sent by the MILF for a peace negotiation” in Barangay Pusaw, Shariff Saidona Mustapha, Maguindanao, prompting the MILF to defend its communities against violent extremism.

The Jamaatul Muhajiren Wal-Ansar is a breakaway group of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).

The MILF has previously stated that the incursion of the ISIS-inspired faction of the BIFF in MILF territories prompted them to launch tactical operations.

Iqbal said it is necessary for the MILF to protect its identified areas and communities from groups or individuals that pose threats.

This responsibility, he said “echoes the religious ruling of the Dar-ulIftah by Sheikh Abu Huraira Odasan against violent extremism.”

"The stand of the MILF was further affirmed by the issuance of the religious edict from the Dar-ulIftah, under the guidance of Islam and teachings of Prophet Muhammad, that every Muslim has the responsibility to defend and protect his people once an individual or group intrudes his village to cause damage and pain," he added.

Iqbal also warned of the risk among the youth to get enticed with violent and extremist ideologies.