ALEOSAN, Cotabato — A 40-year-old farmer suspected of carrying out the 2019 bombing in Libungan, Cotabato was arrested during a joint law enforcement operation in Barangay San Mateo, Aleosan.
Carrying a warrant of arrest issued by the Regional Trial Court, Twelfth Judicial Region, Branch 24 in Midsayap, operatives of the Aleosan Municipal Police Station, Criminal Investigation and Detection Group–Region 12 (CIDG-12), and the Philippine Army’s 34th Infantry Battalion apprehended the suspect at his hideout.
The suspect, a resident of Purok 7, Barangay Tonganon in Carmen, Cotabato, is facing charges of multiple frustrated murder and double attempted murder in connection with the bombing incident along the national highway in Libungan on December 22, 2019. Three civilians were wounded in the attack, which authorities said bore the hallmarks of a deliberate act of violence meant to sow fear among residents.
Police said the arrest was the result of sustained intelligence monitoring and coordination among security forces in North Cotabato. The suspect is currently under police custody and will be turned over to the issuing court for proper disposition.
Authorities vow to continue tracking down other individuals possibly involved in the 2019 bombing as part of ongoing efforts to secure communities and pursue justice for the victims.