The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said that the mastermind behind the fatal bombing at the Mindanao State University in Marawi City was killed in a recent military operation.
In a statement, the AFP said that Khadafi Mimbesa or “Engineer” was believed to be the amir or leader of Dawlah Islamiyah-Maute Group. He was one of the nine alleged Maute members killed in an offensive by the military from January 25-26.
The AFP said Mimbesa was the brains behind the bombing attack in Marawi last December according to the terrorist captured by authorities.
“The efforts of the 103rd Brigade, under the leadership of their Commander, BGen Yegor Rey Barroquillo Jr., resulted in the neutralization of local terrorists and armed members of the Dawlah Islamiyah in Lanao del Sur on January 25 to 26, 2024, who were identified as perpetrators of the fatal bombing at Mindanao State University (MSU) on December 3, 2023,” the AFP said.
The AFP also recovered high-powered firearms, one bandolier and four radios and a smartphone during the operations.
“Our troops will be relentless in the pursuit of those who will seek to disturb the peace. Take this as an invitation and a call to surrender now and avoid the same fate as your dead comrades,” said AFP Chief Romeo Brawner added.
