According to Joint Task Force (JTF) Marawi spokesperson Lt. Col. Jo-Ar Herrera, the shabu was found during the clearing operation in the kitchen at the ground floor of a concrete house, which is being used a hide-out by the enemy. He added that 10 firearms and drug paraphernalia were also found in the same house along with shabu.
"Soldiers spotted men in black emerging from a cluster of houses that prompted troops to maneuver. The terrorists put up a fight but fled while carrying items taken from one of the houses," Herrera said, adding that the confiscated illegal drugs will be turned over to Joint Task Force Haribon. However, he did not mention the exact location of the said house.
The AFP noted that the terrorists were high on drugs during the battle against the military, and are using powerful anti-tank weapons. In addition, the enemies were seen to copying the tactics of ISIS in Syria, Iraq. As a response, the military had to use air strikes against them. However, Herrera emphasized that the soldiers are not using poison bombs.
Meanwhile, 49th Infantry Battalion Captain Eric Estrevillo said that the terrorists are using shabu to keep them awake and energetic during their fight against the military. However, he added that it somehow affected their security. And although the soldiers did not find any shabu lab in the area, many residents told them that there is one in a conflict area.
In the same press conference, Herrera emphasized that the presence of US forces in the Philippines is only normal and is based on agreements. However, he reiterated that they have no participation in tactical operations, particularly in fighting against Maute group. As of Sunday, the military said it has killed 257 terrorists and has recovered 255 firearms.
Contributed by Abner Esteno
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