DATU ODIN SINSUAT, Maguindanao del Norte — A 33-year-old woman was killed in broad daylight after being shot multiple times by unidentified gunmen along the roadside of Barangay Poblacion Dalican around 3:00 p.m. on Monday, August 18, 2025.
The victim was identified by the Datu Odin Sinsuat Municipal Police Station (DOS-MPS) as Bai Rania Pidtukasan Guerra, a resident of Angel Bacani Street, Cotabato City. Witnesses said the suspects, riding a motorcycle, approached Guerra and opened fire without hesitation, hitting her in the head and body. She died instantly at the scene.
Investigators recovered at least ten spent shells from an undetermined type of firearm. The assailants immediately fled toward the northern part of the municipality. Police launched a hot pursuit operation while continuing their probe to establish the motive and identify the perpetrators.
Authorities noted that the killing comes at a time when a gun ban is strictly in effect across the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) in line with the upcoming Parliamentary Elections. Law enforcement officials emphasized that the prohibition on carrying firearms is meant to safeguard communities and prevent election-related violence.
The incident has sparked alarm among residents, raising questions on public safety despite the heightened security measures. Police assured the public that intensified operations are ongoing to bring the suspects to justice and maintain peace in the area.