Jakarta, June 16 (Antara) - The Indonesian Defense Forces (TNI) and community have intensified border security to prevent the entry of Marawi-based pro-ISIS extremist group Maute from the Philippines into Indonesia, Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs Wiranto stated.
"The TNI and community have set up joint posts that are equipped with an early warning system," he noted at the ministry's office here on Friday.
He remarked that based on the coordination meeting in Manado, North Sulawesi, the TNI had, so far, deployed additional troops in the outer islands adjacent to the Philippines, as the Indonesian Navy had stepped up patrolling in the border regions.
He said vigilance against ISIS should constantly be improved during the ongoing conflict in Marawi, Mindanao, the Philippines.
He pointed out that due to the proximity between the Indonesian border and the Philippines, the pro-ISIS group could try to gain entry into the country.
Nevertheless, he believed that there is no need to declare an emergency status over the matter. He was optimistic that the TNI and community have implemented adequate anticipatory measures.
Wiranto had earlier revealed that the Indonesian military is ready to help the Philippines attack the base of the pro-ISIS group in Marawi.
The TNI will ally with the military of several countries: Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Brunei Darussalam, and the Philippines.
The Philippine government has invited Indonesia and Malaysia to combat terrorism. The Philippines has responded positively to Indonesia's willingness to play a role in resolving the conflict in Marawi, Mindanao.(*)
