Bangsamoro Hunt Intensifies After 5 Cops Killed in Maguindanao del Sur Ambush
A major manhunt is underway in Maguindanao del Sur after gunmen ambushed a police patrol team and killed five officers in Shariff Aguak. Three more personnel, including a police captain, were wounded in the attack, turning a routine return to barracks into one of the region’s dea
A major manhunt is underway in Maguindanao del Sur after gunmen ambushed a police patrol team and killed five officers in Shariff Aguak. Three more personnel, including a police captain, were wounded in the attack, turning a routine return to barracks into one of the region’s deadliest assaults on law enforcers in recent months.
The Manila Times reported that the victims were members of the 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company and were heading back to Camp Datu Akilan after peacekeeping operations when heavily armed attackers opened fire in Barangay Mother Poblacion on Saturday night. Authorities placed the attack at around 9:10 to 9:20 p.m.
Police Regional Office-BAR said nearby police stations and allied forces were immediately alerted, with coordinated hot-pursuit operations launched along possible escape routes. The Philippine Army’s 601st Infantry Battalion has also joined the chase as investigators work to identify and arrest the suspects.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. condemned the ambush as a senseless and cowardly attack, saying the entire police organization would go after those responsible. BARMM police regional director Brig. Gen. Jaysen de Guzman likewise said the assault would not be tolerated and promised full accountability.
The incident also sparked condemnation from the Bangsamoro government, with interim Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua ordering close coordination and a thorough investigation. Habang mainit pa ang kaso, officials are asking residents to stay calm, remain vigilant, and share any information that could help bring the killers to justice.
