Terror groups incapable of attacks right now: AFP

FILE: Local terrorist groups do not have the capability to launch any hostile activity as of this time, the spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has said. (PNA photo)

MANILA — Local terrorist groups do not have the capability to launch any hostile activity as of this time, the spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has said.

“Their strength has been reduced significantly and recruitment efforts have not been gaining ground as local populace, through the efforts of the local government units and AFP, has been made aware on preventing and countering violent extremism,” Brig. Gen. Bienvenido Datuin said in a message to the Philippine News Agency (PNA) late Friday.

Datuin was asked to comment on reports that a terror group calling itself the Abdullah Al Islamiah is recruiting and planning to conduct Marawi-like attacks on several key cities in Mindanao.

The AFP and other security forces, he said, are monitoring and securing all urban centers and possible venues of attack.

Datuin earlier said they are not dismissing the possibility of an increase in terrorist activities in Mindanao following reports that Maute Group sub-leader Abu Dar has taken over the leadership of ISIS in Southeast Asia.

“It may be possible, but we are, as I said, we are closely guarding, monitoring all the metropolis, the urban areas to make sure na hindi sila makakaporma (that they could not make any attempt) in so far as terrorist activities (and) plans are concerned,” he said.

Dar is said to have assumed command of the ISIS in Southeast Asia following the death of Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon on Oct. 16 last year during military efforts to retake Marawi City from the hands of the Maute Group terrorists.