Fighters from Muslim refugee groups have taken over the southern Philippine city in the new conflict

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More than 200 members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters are said to have occupied the central Data Paglas market in Mindanao.

The group’s alleged Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) attacked a town on the southern Philippine island of Mindanao on Saturday, according to media reports, forcing many residents to evacuate as the military imposed roadblocks and advanced into the area.

BIFF reported that 200 fighters had entered Datu Paglas on Saturday morning in the town of Maguindanao province in Mindanao, according to PTV state television. According to other reports, the number of fighters ranged from 80 to 100.

The PTV said the “conflict of leadership” prompted a group of fighters led by a commander, Solaiman Tudin, to occupy the city.

Videos released by MAX FM, a radio station in the nearby city of Tacurong, were shown by government troops blocking the highway to Data Paglas.

Another video clip showed thick black smoke coming out of the village as some residents were seen fleeing the area.

Congressman Esmael Mangudadatu and former governor of Maguindanao told the radio that the main concern now is to ensure the safety of civilians. Many residents of the village are preparing for Eid al-Fitr, which is the month of Ramadan.

Brigade News FM, another regional spokesman identified as Lieutenant Colonel John Paul Baldomar, also mentioned that the fighters had occupied the Data Paglas market.

BIFF is an armed group fighting against the peace deal in the southern Philippines, between the main Muslim rebel group, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the central government.

According to the military, some BIFF fighters have reportedly fought alongside the Maute group and Abu Sayyaf 2017 Marawi Siege, which lasted for five months.

Some members of the BIFF have reportedly pledged allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS).

More details coming soon.