CAMP SIONGCO, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte — Government troops from the 6th Infantry (Redskin) Battalion recovered three high-powered firearms and five explosive devices following an armed encounter with suspected lawless elements in Maguindanao del Sur.
According to Lt. Col. Al Victor C. Burkley, Commanding Officer of the 6IB, the firefight occurred while his troops were conducting patrol operations in Barangay Pagatin I, Shariff Saydona Mustapha, around 1:32 PM on April 27, 2025.
Seized from the encounter site were one Caliber .30 Sniper Rifle, one M1 Garand Rifle, one rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) launcher, five rifle grenades, as well as magazines and ammunition.
Following the clash, Brig. Gen. Jose Vladimir R. Cagara, Commander of the 1st Brigade Combat Team (1BCT), and Brig. Gen. Edgar L. Catu, Commander of the 601st Infantry Brigade, directed all units in their respective areas to pursue the fleeing members of the armed group.
Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Donald M. Gumiran, Commander of the 6th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Central, lauded the troops for their swift response and successful operation, which he said helped prevent potential violence against civilians.
“First and foremost, the gun ban is currently in effect. Clearly, carrying any type of firearm is against the law. That’s why we are intensifying our operations to ensure those involved are held accountable,” Maj. Gen. Gumiran emphasized.