Gov’t warns journalists to ‘take precaution’ in Marawi after Australian reporter hit by bullet

Government troops walk past a mosque before their assault with insurgents from the so-called Maute group, who have taken over large parts of Marawi City, southern Philippines May 25, 2017.  PHOTO: REUTERS/Romeo Ranoco
Government troops walk past a mosque before their assault with insurgents from the so-called Maute group, who have taken over large parts of Marawi City, southern Philippines May 25, 2017. PHOTO: REUTERS/Romeo Ranoco

Although the compound is secured by the military, it is only about two kilometers (1.2 miles) from the pockets of the city that the gunmen control.

“I want to appeal to everyone you should be very careful because in our assessment the vicinity of the 103rd (military camp), the vicinity of the capitol is within the line of sight of the enemy,” local military spokesman Lieutenant-Colonel Jo-ar Herrera told reporters in the compound after the shooting incident.

Harvey was taken to the nearby city of Iligan for medical treatment, Adiong said.

Presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella also advised journalists to take precaution. “While I understand that you would not shirk your duty in the pursuit of any story, bear in mind that there’s no story more valuable than one’s life. Take the necessary precautions and stay safe while covering conflicts.”

At least 26 civilians and 58 security forces have died in the conflict, according to authorities. They say more than 200 militants have been killed.

The city of 200,000 people has been largely abandoned due to the fighting, which has seen the military relentlessly bomb the areas held by the militants, with residents fleeing to nearby towns.

However hundreds of civilians are trapped in the militant-controlled areas with some being used as human shields, according to the military.

With reports from Inquirer.net




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