ONE of the suspects in the Mindanao State University bombing has been killed during military operations in Lanao del Sur, according to the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

On Monday (12 Feb 2024), the Philippine Army confirmed the death of Khadafi Mimbesa, also known as “Engineer”, in the military operation from January 25 to 26 of this year.

“The efforts of the 103rd Brigade, under the leadership of their Commander, Brig. Gen. 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 MSU,” AFP said.

The MSU bombing occurred on December 3, 2023, during a Catholic mass.

AFP also stated that the military operations led to the recovery of nine high-powered firearms, one bandolier, four Baofeng radios, and one smartphone.

AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr. commended the troops for successfully pursuing those responsible for the MSU bombing and urged remnants of the group to surrender.

“Our troops will be relentless in pursuing those who seek to disturb the peace. Take this as an invitation and a call to surrender now and avoid the same fate as your deceased comrades,” Brawner Jr. said.