AFP mulls deployment of troops in Butig to prevent attacks

The military is mulling the deployment of troops or police units to strategic areas in Butig municipality to prevent the Maute Group and other lawless elements from harassing its residents, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said.

"Again there are measures that can be employed to secure their safety and security, and these include the deployment of forces (either police or military) to maintain peace and secure the town's outskirts," Padilla said when asked how the government would protect the Lanao del Sur town after it was attacked by the Maute Group last Nov. 26, for the second time. The first was in February.

While Butig town officials and residents are open to the establishment of a military camp in their locality, Padilla said, the proposal is still being considered by ranking AFP leaders and no decision has been made.

An estimated 62 members of the terrorist group have been killed while 37 troopers have been wounded in the military operation against the lawless band.

Butig town has been cleared of all Maute Group elements Wednesday but military units are still clearing the area of improvised explosive devices and other traps laid by the bandits, before they start allowing civilians to return.