MAMASAPANO, MAGUINDANAO DEL SUR — One man was killed while a municipal councilor and another companion were rushed to the hospital after unidentified gunmen ambushed their vehicle in Barangay Tuka, Mamasapano on Thursday afternoon, December 4, in yet another violent attack that underscores the persistent cycle of bloodshed in the region.
The victims were aboard a gray Toyota Innova (plate number NCA 3240) when attackers opened fire right in front of the Barangay Hall of Tuka. Video footage showed the vehicle riddled with bullets, a grim testament to the brazenness and brutality of the assault.
Police reports identified the fatality as Samsudin, a resident of Sultan sa Barongis, Maguindanao del Sur. Wounded in the attack was Municipal Councilor Montasir of Sultan sa Barongis, who was driving the vehicle. Another passenger also sustained injuries.
Initial information indicates that the victims had just come from Cotabato City and were on their way home when armed men launched the ambush. Spent shells recovered at the scene point to the use of a .45-caliber pistol.
Mamasapano Police Chief Lt. Lou Christian Villones confirmed the incident and said hot pursuit operations are ongoing to locate the suspects. Investigators are also looking into whether the attack is linked to an existing local conflict—initially suspected as rido—although this remains under thorough verification.
This ambush marks yet another addition to the pattern of recurring violence in central Mindanao, where clan feuds, long-standing disputes, and heavily armed groups have repeatedly fueled deadly confrontations. Today’s attack, occurring just meters away from a barangay hall, highlights how even public spaces remain vulnerable.
Authorities continue to determine the full identities of all the victims and the motive behind the shooting.
Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.