Philippines destroys 'IS Emir' in Marawi

The Philippine military has killed IS “Emir” Isnilon Hapilon and leader Omar Maute in the “final battle” in Marawi city.

Photos obtained by ABS-CBN News show the bodies of IS “Emir” Isnilon Hapilon and Maute Group leader Omar Maute. However, the military has yet to make an official statement on the deaths of the two terrorist leaders.

ABS-CBN photos show the bodies of IS “Emir” Isnilon Hapilon and Maute Group leader Omar Maute. Photo: ABS-CBN News

Fighting broke out in the Islamic city of Marawi in May this year, after the Maute group raised the black flag of the Islamic State terrorist group in the city and burned down Dansalan University.

In June, relatives of Maute group leaders (Cayamora's father and Farhana's mother) were arrested in separate police operations. Cayamora died in August 2017.

Meanwhile, the leader of the Abu Sayyaf hostage-taking terrorist group, Isnilon Hapilon, was appointed as the Southeast Asian Emir of the so-called “Islamic Caliphate” (the terrorist organization Islamic State).

Gunfire erupted as Philippine troops attempted to capture terrorist leader Hapilon hiding in Marawi city.

Since the Marawi conflict began five months ago, some 753 terrorists have been killed. At least 47 civilians and 155 Philippine soldiers have also been killed in the conflict.

The fierce fighting also reduced the once bustling and prosperous city to rubble. Many buildings and even mosques were completely destroyed.

According to Kienthuc.net.vn