Indonesia seeks to repatriate citizens from conflict area in Philippines

The government of Indonesia has attempted to evacuate 11 of its nationals who have fled from the Philippines’ city of Marawi, where fighting between IS militants and the Philippine army is taking place. (Photo: Ed Uthman/ Flickr)

JAKARTA— The government of Indonesia has attempted to evacuate 11 of its nationals who have fled from the Philippines’ city of Marawi, where fighting between IS militants and the Philippine army is taking place.

National Police Spokesman Inspector General Setyo Wasisto said on Monday that the 11 people entered the Philippines legally to conduct sermon, but do not have linkages with the IS group.

“Now we are attempting to evacuate them and provide safe a passage back to Indonesia,” he said at the national police headquarters.

“They own licenses for carrying out sermon and have no affiliation with the group (IS) who is fighting now,” said Wasisto.

All of the Indonesian citizens are on healthy condition, he added.

The government of the Philippines has declared martial law in Marawi city following intensified fighting between the government army and the IS members.