AFP now has lists of Maute Group supporters

AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Eduardo Año. (Photo: Philippine News Agency)

MANILA — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Thursday announced that it has already compiled two lists containing the names of more than 200 supporters of the Maute Group.

The list includes local politicians, AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Eduardo Año said in television interview Thursday.

“I cannot recall the number but I think its about more than 200 names. (There are names of incumbent local) politicians, (private citizens and Maute Group members) there,” he added.

These individuals will be arrested as soon as possible.

The military official said the lists also includes the owner of the house in Marawi City where PHP52.2 million in cash and PHP27 million in checks were recovered last June 5.

“Well, we have already identified the owner of the house but I rather rather not reveal the identity. Investigations (are ongoing) to identify supporters of this group,” he added.

The military has been conducting military operations against the Maute Group following its May 23 onslaught on Marawi City.

As of this posting, the AFP has neutralized 138 Maute Group members while losing 39 government security troops in the three-week campaign.

Around 20 civilians were reported killed by the lawless group.

Also seized were 138 firearms with government forces rescuing 1,561 civilians from the clutches of the terrorists.