Four Killed in Terrorist Attack during Catholic Mass in Marawi, Philippines

Accident – death – Obituary News : ASEAN Condemns Terrorist Attack at Catholic Mass in Southern Philippines

MANILA, Dec 8 (Reuters) – The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) strongly condemned a “heinous terrorist attack” that took place in the southern Philippines over the weekend. The attack occurred during a Catholic Mass, where four people lost their lives in a bombing. The bomb exploded at a university gymnasium in Marawi, a city that was previously devastated by a five-month military campaign in 2017 to eliminate Islamic State loyalists.

In a statement, ASEAN expressed its deepest condolences to the families affected by the attack. The organization, which represents ten Southeast Asian countries, denounced the act of terror and called for unity in the face of such violence.

The responsibility for the attack was claimed by Islamic State militants. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. stated that “foreign terrorists” were behind the incident, and the police are currently investigating the incident to validate the claim made by the Islamic State group.

Authorities have identified two members of Daulah-Islamiyah Maute, a local extremist group that was involved in the 2017 occupation of Marawi alongside fighters from Indonesia, Malaysia, and other countries, as suspects in the bombing.

In a significant development, the Philippine military announced the arrest of a suspect in Marawi on December 6. The individual is believed to have planted the bomb in the gymnasium and was identified by witnesses.

The attack at the Catholic Mass has once again raised concerns about the influence of the Islamic State group in the region. The Philippines has been grappling with terrorism for years, and this incident serves as a reminder of the persistent threat posed by extremist organizations.

The condemnation by ASEAN highlights the regional commitment to combatting terrorism and promoting peace and stability. The organization’s statement sends a strong message that acts of violence targeting innocent civilians will not be tolerated.

As investigations continue, the Philippine authorities will work to ensure that those responsible for this heinous act are brought to justice. The government remains resolute in its efforts to safeguard the security and well-being of its citizens.

This incident serves as a grim reminder of the challenges faced by countries in the region in countering terrorism. It underscores the need for continued cooperation and intelligence sharing among nations to effectively address this common threat.

The people of Marawi, who have already endured immense suffering and destruction, now mourn the loss of their fellow citizens. The international community stands in solidarity with them, offering support and condolences during this difficult time.

The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles..