[Xinhua] Philippines security forces gunned down two terrorists allegedly carrying an improvised explosive device in North Cotabato on August 8. Milatary spokesman Arvin Encinas said the two bomb couriers aboard a motorcycle attempted to transport the IED but were flagged down at a military checkpoint for inspection.He said in a statement, "When the troops approached to check them, they attempted to flee and one suspect drew a firearm and shot the troops."
Encinas said this prompted the troops to return fire, killing the two people on the spot. He added that troops found a pistol and an IED inside a paper bag from these two people, who were believed to be members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters.
"The bomb couriers are trying to plot a bomb terror attack in the province of North Cotabato.It would have resulted in casualties had we not prevented (these people)," the military spokesman added.