01:52Philippines: Iligan City bolsters security amid fears of militant threat
Checkpoints were set up for incoming vehicles and passengers in Iligan City, Tuesday, as a part of increased security measures amid ongoing fighting between government forces and militant groups reportedly linked to the self-proclaimed Islamic State (IS, formerly ISIS/ISIL). All passengers are required to leave their vehicles and undergo a body check and ID check. A list of wanted persons was displayed in the checkpoint area for easy reference.
Iligan City Mayor Celso Regencia clarified earlier that the city is not on 'lockdown' but instead implements 'containment' measures necessary for the ongoing security operation.
Over 150 people have already died in the clashes after violence broke out on May 23, when Maute fighters gunned down several people in Marawi in response to the arrest of the alleged leader of the local IS branch, Isnilon Hapilon. Dozens of gunmen would go on to burn several buildings and plant the black flag of IS in the city centre.
President Rodrigo Duterte has declared martial law in the area for a period of 60 days.
01:52Checkpoints were set up for incoming vehicles and passengers in Iligan City, Tuesday, as a part of increased security measures amid ongoing fighting between government forces and militant groups reportedly linked to the self-proclaimed Islamic State (IS, formerly ISIS/ISIL). All passengers are required to leave their vehicles and undergo a body check and ID check. A list of wanted persons was displayed in the checkpoint area for easy reference.
Iligan City Mayor Celso Regencia clarified earlier that the city is not on 'lockdown' but instead implements 'containment' measures necessary for the ongoing security operation.
Over 150 people have already died in the clashes after violence broke out on May 23, when Maute fighters gunned down several people in Marawi in response to the arrest of the alleged leader of the local IS branch, Isnilon Hapilon. Dozens of gunmen would go on to burn several buildings and plant the black flag of IS in the city centre.
President Rodrigo Duterte has declared martial law in the area for a period of 60 days.