World · Philippines Bureau
Child killed, man hurt in MILF faction clash in Maguindanao
An 11-year-old boy was fatally struck by stray gunfire while a man suffered injuries during an armed confrontation between rival factions of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in Maguindanao del Sur on Wednesday morning.
LSN Philippines ·
COTABATO CITY — A child was killed and an adult wounded when gunfire erupted between competing groups within the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao del Sur, early Wednesday.
Major Joel Lebrilla, chief of the Shariff Aguak police station, confirmed the casualties resulted from stray bullets fired during the armed encounter between the two MILF factions. The 11-year-old boy was identified as a victim of the crossfire, while details on the wounded man's condition were not immediately available.
The clash highlights ongoing internal tensions within the separatist organization, which has been a central actor in the Bangsamoro peace process. The incident occurred in the early morning hours, with authorities responding to secure the area.
No immediate statements were issued regarding the cause of the factional dispute or casualties on either side of the confrontation. Police have not announced arrests or additional details about the engagement.