CAMP SIONGCO, Awang, DOS, Maguindanao del Norte — May 5, 2025 — A notorious member of an organized crime group was killed during a joint law enforcement operation early Monday morning in Sitio Dulayap, Barangay Panggao, Barira, Maguindanao del Norte.
The fatality was identified as Kamlon Manardas Ragundo, 34, a resident of the area, according to Lt. Col. John A. Dela Cruz, Commanding Officer of the Marine Battalion Landing Team-2 (MBLT-2).
The operation, conducted around 5:00 a.m., aimed to serve an arrest warrant issued by the local court against Porok Marandakan Ragundo, alias “Rokkie,” and seven others involved in various criminal cases. The operation was led by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group – Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (CIDG-BARMM), with support from MBLT-2.
“Our troops were only there to assist the police in serving the warrant, but as we approached the target residence, we were fired upon,” said Lt. Col. Dela Cruz. “Our forces were compelled to return fire in self-defense.”
During the exchange, Kamlon Ragundo was killed while the remaining suspects fled, reportedly throwing a grenade as they escaped. Recovered from the scene were two M16A1 rifles, several magazines, two grenades, and assorted ammunition.
Brig. Gen. Romulo Quemado II, Commander of the 1st Marine Brigade, said the Ragundo group had long been involved in criminal activities including gun-for-hire operations, violent robberies, and illegal drug trade. These activities have caused fear among residents in Barira, Matanog, Parang, Sultan Mastura, and Buldon in Maguindanao del Norte, as well as in Cotabato City.
“The group is also known to be allied with ‘Alpha King,’ who is associated with the terrorist Dawlah Islamiya – Hassan Group,” Brig. Gen. Quemado revealed.
Meanwhile, Major General Donald M. Gumiran, Commander of the 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division and Joint Task Force Central, commended the success of the operation.
“This operation’s success is a testament to the effective coordination and dedication of our troops, particularly MBLT-2 and CIDG-BARMM, in enforcing the law and maintaining order in the region. Neutralizing a notorious criminal is a significant step toward reducing crime and ensuring the safety of our communities,” Maj. Gen. Gumiran said.