In a major breakthrough against criminality, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) successfully arrested three fugitives linked to a notorious gun-for-hire syndicate during a series of intelligence-driven manhunt operations conducted across Mindanao from October 31 to November 3, 2025.
The operations were carried out in compliance with the directive of the Acting Chief of the Philippine National Police, Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., to intensify the nationwide campaign against wanted persons and fugitives.
Acting CIDG Director Police Major General Robert AA Morico II confirmed that the three suspects—identified only as “Samer,” “Sidin,” and “Mike”—were apprehended in separate locations: Parang, Maguindanao del Norte; Pigcawayan, North Cotabato; and the Davao International Airport in Buhangin, Davao City. All three were the subjects of Warrants of Arrest for murder and double attempted murder issued by the Cotabato City Regional Trial Court on June 25, 2025.
According to reports, the suspects were members of the “Ontong Criminal Group,” affiliated with the DI-listed “Opaw Criminal Group,” a gun-for-hire syndicate operating in Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao del Norte. The group has been linked to a series of killings and violent crimes in the region.
Investigations revealed that on September 16, 2024, the three suspects ambushed and shot victims identified as Johari, Mike, and Jabar while they were riding a motorcycle in Buldon, Maguindanao del Norte. Johari was killed in the attack, while the other two narrowly survived.
The coordinated operations were conducted by the CIDG Cotabato City Field Unit, in partnership with the CIDG Regional Field Unit–Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (BAR), the PNP Special Action Force, Intelligence Group, territorial police units, and the Aviation Security Group 11.
“I commend the CIDG BAR under PCOL Christopher M. Bermudez, the CIDG Cotabato City Field Unit led by PLTCOL Eugene A. Balugo, and all joint operating units for their relentless pursuit that led to the capture of these fugitives,” said PMGEN Morico. “This operation shows the CIDG’s unwavering commitment to justice and public safety. You have crossed regions to ensure these criminals face the law—job very well done.”
PMGEN Morico reaffirmed that the CIDG remains steadfast in its campaign against wanted criminals nationwide. “The CIDG is dauntless; the CIDG means business,” he emphasized.