MSU bombing mastermind killed in Lanao military ops

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) yesterday confirmed the death of the leader of terrorist group Dawlah Islamiyah (DI), who masterminded the bombing of Mindanao State University (MSU) in December last year.

- MICHAEL PUNONGBAYAN

Military sources were able to verify that Khadafi Mimbesa, known as "Engineer," was among those killed in last month's military operation in Piagapo, Lanao del Sur.

AFP public affairs office chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad said the 103rd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army under Brig. Gen. Yegor Rey Barroquillo Jr. was able to validate the terrorist leader's death.

The same military unit was responsible for the neutralization of local terrorists and armed members of the DI in Lanao del Sur last Jan 25 and 26.

Trinidad said statements from a surrendered terrorist, identified as Khatab, a high-value individual in the DI-Maute group who surrendered to the 2nd Mechanized Brigade last Sunday, have corroborated the initial information on the demise of Mimbesa.