Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao del Norte – November 15, 2024 – A joint Buy-Bust operation launched by operatives from the PNP Drug Enforcement Group Special Operations Unit-15 (SOU-15), together with the 6th Mechanized Battalion of the Philippine Army, and in coordination with the Sultan Kudarat Municipal Police Station and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) BAR, resulted in a violent confrontation with drug suspects at about 11:40 AM in Brgy. Simuay, Sultan Kudarat.
The operation, which was part of ongoing efforts to curb the illegal drug trade in the region, led to the seizure of approximately 1 kilogram of suspected shabu, valued at Php 6.8 million. Two suspects were arrested but sustained gunshot wounds. However, two other suspects managed to escape and are now subjects of an active manhunt.
According to authorities, the operation targeted a local drug syndicate involved in the distribution of illegal substances. Upon consummating the drug transaction, the suspects reportedly realized they were dealing with law enforcement personnel and attempted to flee, triggering a firefight. The ensuing gunbattle led to the tragic deaths of two police personnel, Police Corporal Kirt Sipin and Patrolwoman Roselyn Bulias, both of whom were part of the operation.
In addition to the confiscated drugs, law enforcement recovered several items from the suspects, including:
- Buy-bust money: One (1) genuine One Thousand Peso bill (Php 1,000.00) with Serial No. AL3515341 placed on top of ten (10) bundles of photocopied One Thousand Peso bills
- One (1) unit of a .45 caliber pistol with Serial Number 329874, along with nine (9) rounds of ammunition
The suspected illegal drugs have been sent for laboratory examination by the Regional Forensic Unit of the BAR, while an extensive investigation continues to track down the remaining suspects.
The Police Regional Office of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO BAR) expressed its deepest condolences to the families and colleagues of the fallen officers, emphasizing the bravery and sacrifices made in the line of duty.
“Our flag doesn’t fly because the wind moves it, but because of the last breath of each valiant enforcer and serviceman who died protecting it,” said PBGEN Romeo J. Macapaz, Regional Director of PRO BAR, during his visit to the wounded operatives in the hospital and his tribute to the fallen officers.
He added, “We honor the courage of all our personnel involved in this operation. Their commitment to the service is unwavering, even in the most dangerous of situations. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of our brave officers.”
The wounded officers have been provided immediate medical attention and are recovering in the hospital. Authorities have vowed to continue their pursuit of justice for the fallen heroes and ensure that the remaining suspects are apprehended.
The operation was part of a larger strategy to eliminate drug syndicates operating in the Bangsamoro region, and despite the tragic loss of life, law enforcement agencies remain steadfast in their commitment to eradicate illegal drugs and maintain peace and order.
