Zamboanga Peninsula, Philippines – The campaign against insurgency and local terrorist groups continues to gain momentum as 41 individuals associated with various threat groups surrendered or were arrested throughout September 2024. This achievement highlights the intensified efforts of police units in the Zamboanga Peninsula, led by Police Brigadier General Bowenn Joey M. Masauding, Regional Director of Police Regional Office 9 (PRO9).
Under the leadership of PBGen Masauding, PRO9 implemented a series of intelligence-driven Internal Security Operations (ISO) and strategic initiatives aimed at encouraging the peaceful surrender of those affiliated with threat groups. These efforts, bolstered by the Revitalized Pulis sa Barangay (RPSB) program, emphasize the consequences of insurgency and provide critical support for the reintegration of former members into society. The program has successfully encouraged individuals to abandon their violent paths and choose peace.
The month of September saw 38 individuals affiliated with the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) and Local Terrorist Groups (LTG) voluntarily surrender. In addition, three high-profile arrests were made, including members from CTG, LTG, and Criminal Gangs (CG).
One of the most notable arrests was that of Mobin Kullin, a nationally wanted individual with a PhP 600,000 bounty. Kullin, wanted for kidnapping and serious illegal detention, was apprehended on September 23, 2024, in Barangay Tabiawan, Isabela City, Basilan. He had previously been associated with the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) and operated under notorious sub-leaders Ustadz Kalah, Khadaffy Janjalani, and Isnilon Hapilon in Basilan Province.
PBGen Masauding commended the efforts of all PRO9 units, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between government agencies in maintaining peace in the region. “The Zamboanga Peninsula remains insurgency-free, with no reports of existing Private Armed Groups (PAGs) or potential Private Armed Groups (PPAGs) in the region,” he stated.
The progress achieved in September underscores the commitment of PRO9 to fostering a secure and peaceful environment in the Zamboanga Peninsula. These successes reflect the growing impact of the RPSB program and coordinated operations aimed at ensuring long-term peace and stability in the region.
