By John Unson
MAGUINDANAO, Philippines – Government troops foiled an attempt by armed men to take over a military detachment in Mamasapano and hoist the black flag of the Islamic State as a sign of support for the terrorist group.
Troops clashed with the gunmen, described by local officials as a “mysterious gang” linked to the Maute group and Abu Sayyaf, leaving four people dead, including an Army soldier.
Villagers identified the fatalities as Samir Bantuas, Bona Samsudin and Guiapar Angkay, whose bodies were dragged away by their companions.
The dead trooper was identified as Army Cpl. Samsudin Mohammad.
Local residents said a gunman named Tantung, who was wounded during the clashes on Sunday, died the next day.
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