23 May 2017 | 09:18 PM UTC
Philippines: Militants and security forces clash in Marawi City May 23
Fighting is ongoing between suspected Islamic State militants and security forces in Marawi City, Mindanao, on May 23; avoid the area
Event
Security forces clashed with suspected Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) militants in Marawi City on Mindanao Island on Tuesday, May 23. According to media reports, the fighting started at approximately 14:00 (local time) when soldiers carried out an operation to capture Isnilon Hapilon, the leader of ASG. Hapilon and around 15 other militants have reportedly occupied the Amai Pakpak Medical Center but the reports have not been confirmed. At least five police officers have been wounded in the fighting. Military officials are asking residents to stay indoors. Security operations are ongoing, avoid the area.
Context
Hapilon is wanted by the United States for carrying out terrorist attacks targeting US citizens. He is also suspected of attempting to unite the Filipino militant groups that have pledged allegiance to the Islamic State (IS).
Abu Sayyaf is known for kidnapping people for ransom in southwest Mindanao (especially in Zamboanga province) and in the Sulu Archipelago (Tawi-Tawi, Sulu, and Basilan provinces). Sailors and foreigners are regularly abducted in the Sulu Sea. The Philippine military confirmed on February 27 that Abu Sayyaf had beheaded a German hostage after the deadline for the payment of his ransom had passed. The killing reportedly took place in Indanan on Sulu Archipelago. In late April 2016, Abu Sayyaf executed a Canadian hostage who was captured in September 2015 on Jolo Island and beheaded two Canadian hostages in mid-June 2016 after failing to receive a ransom for their release. Nearly 30 people are still being held hostage by Abu Sayyaf, including Indonesian, Malaysian, Vietnamese, Filipino, Japanese, Canadian, and Dutch citizens.
Advice
Individuals in Marawi City are advised to remain indoors, to monitor the situation, and to obey all instructions issued by the local authorities.
As a reminder, most Western governments formally advise against all travel to southwest Mindanao and to the Sulu Archipelago because of terrorist activity, regular clashes between the military and insurgent groups, and the risk of kidnapping by Abu Sayyaf.
