Marawi Crisis
Here are the things we know so far about Marawi crisis after Duterte’s declaration of martial law over the battle between Maute group and government troops.
Marawi city is now under crisis over the firefight between the ISIS-inspired Maute group and the government forces, which kills at least 2 soldiers, policeman, several militants, and injured about 12 people.
President Rodrigo Duterte declared martial law in the whole Mindanao for 60 days following the extended gun battle in Marawi City. He also cut short his official visit to Russia and meeting with its President Vladimir Putin to handle the situation.
Mr. Duterte has already ordered the Philippine Navy to set blockades in the waters between Visayas and Mindanao. He also said that government security forces may conduct searches and set up a checkpoint in Mindanao.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) is now on full alert status nationwide to intensify the security in ensuring the safety of the public. Red alert status has been also activated by the Social Welfare department.
The firefight in Marawi City started when government troops raided the house where Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon in Marawi City. Hapilon called for reinforcement from the Maute Group, which was believed to be responsible for the Davao blast last year.
The Maute Group fought back to the government forces, which turns the city chaotic scenery. The gun battle between the two groups has occupied schools, churches, hospital, city jail, city hall, and government hospitals.
The electricity in the city was also cut during the exchange of gunshots between the terror group and government troops. The authorities also confirmed that the militants have disarmed guards and freed some of the inmates.
When the gun battle in Marawi City has temporarily subsided, the residents take this as an opportunity to flee. Numerous vehicles jammed from the highway of Marawi to Iligan City due to tight security at the military checkpoints. Some of the residents also immediately flee using boats before the firefight resumed.
