RAJAH BUAYAN, Maguindanao del Sur — Authorities arrested three suspected members of a private armed group (PAG) on Tuesday night, October 28, 2025, following a hot pursuit operation linked to the attempted murder of a businessman in Barangay Baital, this town.
Rajah Buayan Municipal Police Station chief Capt. Joel Lebrilla said the operation stemmed from a shooting incident earlier that evening involving Anton Mamalinta, a businessman and resident of Barangay Dapantis. Mamalinta was fired upon by two armed suspects, but managed to escape unharmed and immediately sought police assistance.
Responding officers, together with troops from the 33rd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army, launched a pursuit operation that led to the arrest of three individuals who allegedly provided refuge to the fleeing gunmen. The suspects were identified only by their aliases Bronson, 60; Ranky, 46; and Norodin, 37 — all residents of Barangay Baital.
Recovered during the operation were two M16 rifles with magazines and ammunition, three M203 grenades, a bandolier, a magazine pouch, and spent shells from a .45-caliber pistol. Authorities also seized explosives and assorted ammunition in plain view inside the suspects’ residence.
Police said two other suspects, identified as Ping and Den, who were allegedly the main gunmen in the attack, remain at large. According to the victim, Ping fired at him using a .45-caliber pistol, while Den attempted to shoot but his firearm malfunctioned, allowing Mamalinta to escape.
When authorities traced the suspects’ hideout and ordered them to surrender the fugitives, the three men reportedly refused, prompting the joint police-military team to enter the premises and make the arrest.
The three are now detained and face multiple charges for Obstruction of Justice, Illegal Possession of Firearms and Explosives, and violations of Republic Act 10591 (Comprehensive Law on Firearms and Ammunition).
Capt. Lebrilla said the successful operation demonstrates the Rajah Buayan Police Station’s commitment to maintaining peace, order, and justice in the municipality. Follow-up operations are ongoing to capture the remaining suspects.