In a joint police-Army operation in Cotabato, four members of a criminal gang associated with the Dawlah Islamiya were killed during clashes with law-enforcers.

The operation, which spanned two days, targeted Medalya Sultan Tidong, a notorious gang leader wanted for multiple crimes including murder, extortion, and drug trafficking.Tidong and his associates resisted arrest, leading to violent confrontations that resulted in the deaths of four gang members.Despite the operation's success in eliminating key figures, some members managed to escape.The operation highlights the ongoing efforts of Philippine authorities to dismantle organized crime networks linked to extremist groups.Local officials emphasized the importance of such coordinated efforts in maintaining public safety and combating terrorism.The incident underscores the persistent threat posed by groups like Dawlah Islamiya, which have been linked to violent activities in the region.Authorities continue to prioritize intelligence-led operations to neutralize such threats and protect communities.