NORTH COTABATO — April 20, 2026 — A joint counterterrorism operation led by the Philippine National Police–Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) resulted in the arrest of a suspected member of a local terrorist group in Kidapawan City, authorities confirmed.
Arrested was an individual identified only by the alias “Salma,” who is listed under the Periodic Status Report (PSR) as a member of a Local Terrorist Group (LTG) allegedly serving as a logistics and finance operative of the Dawlah Islamiyah–Hassan Group (DI-HG) during the second quarter of calendar year 2021.
The operation, conducted in Barangay Indangan, Kidapawan City, involved coordinated efforts between the Regional Directorial Staff Branch (RDB) of the SAF, the Kidapawan City Police Station, the Provincial Intelligence Unit, and other units under the Cotabato Police Provincial Office (PPO).
Authorities said the arrest was carried out by virtue of multiple standing warrants issued by the Regional Trial Court (RTC), Branch 13, 12th Judicial Region in Cotabato City, dated October 4, 2021. The suspect is facing charges for multiple attempted murder (Criminal Case No. 2021-12650), destructive arson (Criminal Case No. 2021-12651), and violation of Republic Act No. 11479, or the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 (Criminal Case No. 2021-12652).
Following the arrest, the suspect was placed under the custody of the Kidapawan City Police Station for proper documentation and legal processing.
Police officials emphasized that the successful apprehension highlights the sustained and intensified campaign of the Philippine National Police against terrorism and insurgency, particularly targeting individuals involved in the logistical and financial networks that support extremist activities.
“The arrest of individuals providing critical support to terrorist groups is a significant step in dismantling their operational capabilities,” authorities said, noting that continued intelligence-driven operations remain key in ensuring peace and stability in the region.
The PNP reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding communities in Mindanao by pursuing all persons involved in terrorist activities and bringing them before the law.