Cotabato City, June 14, 2025 — A series of gunshots rang out in Barangay Rosary Heights 5 on Saturday, causing alarm among residents and renewing concerns over the continued prevalence of loose firearms in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
According to witnesses, multiple gunshots — estimated at least ten — were heard around 2nd Street in Barangay Rosary Heights 5, prompting panic in the neighborhood. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
The Cotabato City Police and military units immediately responded to the scene and launched a hot pursuit operation to identify and apprehend the suspect behind the incident.
Mayor Bruce Matabalao personally went to the area following reports that the shots were allegedly fired by a certain Adam Mlok, who is said to be a chief barangay tanod (village watchman). Mlok reportedly fired his weapon indiscriminately in the middle of the day, creating tension and fear among residents.
In response, Mayor Matabalao announced that a curfew will soon be implemented in Barangay RH5 to ensure the safety and security of its residents. Law enforcement authorities are now actively searching for Mlok so that he can be held accountable for his actions.
Adding clarity to the situation, former barangay kagawad Abdulmoiz “Miz-Miz” Maulana denied any personal connection between his family and Mlok. In a statement, Maulana clarified that Mlok is not his personal aide, but a driver of the barangay’s rescue vehicle. He expressed willingness to cooperate with the police to speed up the investigation.
Maulana also urged residents not to panic, assuring them that the local government and police are committed to restoring peace and order in the community.
This latest incident is just one of the many cases in the region involving unauthorized and indiscriminate use of firearms, a recurring issue that has plagued various parts of BARMM. Authorities continue to call for stricter enforcement of gun laws and tighter monitoring of civilian firearm possession.
City officials and security forces are working closely together to prevent further violence, while residents hope for a swift resolution and more decisive measures against the spread and misuse of loose firearms in the region.