Lamitan City, Basilan – Four individuals sustained injuries following an explosion at a gas station in Barangay Matibay, Lamitan City, on Tuesday afternoon, June 17.
According to a report from the Lamitan City Police Station, the blast occurred at approximately 3:40 p.m. at A.G. Gas Station located along Aguinaldo Street. Just a minute after the explosion, police received a call from Abubakar K. Gunong, identified as the owner of the gas station.
Police personnel led by PLT. Marsin L. Sabaani, under the supervision of PLTCOL. Elmer P. Solon, promptly responded to the scene. They were joined by members of the Basilan Provincial Explosive and Canine Unit (PECU), who immediately launched an investigation into the incident.
The injured victims were identified as:
- Jamil Mataud Mahmud, 45, a construction worker and resident of Pamaran Village, Barangay Malinis;
- Naim Lamla Tomas, 30, a gasoline boy from Ocampo Road, Barangay Matibay;
- Gunong Reyyan, 20, a student also residing on Ocampo Road;
- Mut-ab Muntasil Gunong, 23, a gasoline boy from the same area.
The victims were initially brought to Lamitan District Hospital for treatment. However, due to the severity of their injuries, doctors recommended that all four be transferred to Zamboanga City for further medical care.
Initial findings from PECU revealed fragments believed to be parts of a grenade or high-explosive (H.E.) fragmentation device recovered at the scene. Further examination is ongoing to determine the exact type and origin of the explosive.
Basilan Provincial Director PCOL. Cerrazid A. Umabong personally conducted an ocular inspection at the site and issued directives to investigators.
Authorities have yet to determine the motive behind the explosion and continue to work to identify possible suspects. The investigation remains ongoing.