COTABATO CITY, Philippines – November 15, 2024
In a horrific act of violence, two minors, Johari Moksin and Hamod Moksin, were killed in an ambush on November 14, 2024, in Brgy. Labu-Labu Mother, Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao del Sur. Initial reports indicate that the two young victims, residents of Barangay Kulalo, Mamasapano, were shot by unidentified gunmen while inside their vehicle on their way from Isulan. Witnesses reported that armed men in a white car opened fire, leading to the tragic deaths of the minors.
The Bangsamoro Government and the provincial leadership have strongly condemned the incident, calling it a heinous violation of human dignity and the rights of children. In an official statement, Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim expressed his deep sorrow over the incident, highlighting the egregious nature of the crime, particularly as the world observes Children’s Day on November 20 in honor of the United Nations Declaration of the Rights of the Child. He emphasized the urgent need to protect young lives from harm and uphold justice for victims and their families.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved families of Johari and Hamod,” Ebrahim stated. “This senseless act of aggression against innocent children is intolerable and must be met with justice. Whoever kills an innocent life, it is as if he has killed all of humanity,” he added, quoting the Qur’an. The Chief Minister urged law enforcement agencies to conduct a swift and comprehensive investigation into the incident, promising full support from the Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission and other relevant agencies to ensure the perpetrators face the law’s full force.
Governor Abdulraof A. Macacua of Maguindanao del Norte echoed the condemnation, calling the attack an affront to Islamic principles and fundamental humanity. “There is no justification for such a ruthless crime, especially against defenseless children,” he said. Macacua appealed to the community to remain vigilant and assist law enforcement by providing any information that could lead to the arrest of those responsible, reiterating the collective responsibility to protect children from violence.
In a related development, PMaj Bobby Mario Edea Egera has assumed the role of Chief of Police for Shariff Aguak, succeeding PLTCOL Reggie Albellera. Authorities are hopeful that with new leadership, local police will further strengthen their resolve to solve this case and enhance security in the region.
As the investigation unfolds, this tragic incident underscores the urgent need for peace and protection for vulnerable communities in Maguindanao del Sur, with leaders at all levels calling for accountability and an end to violence against children.
