DATU ODIN SINSUAT, Maguindanao del Norte — Two individuals were killed in a brazen ambush carried out by unidentified armed men on Saturday afternoon, April 26, in Barangay Bagoinged, intensifying concerns over security in the area.
Police identified the victims as Najir Esmael and Tho Abid, both residents of Barangay Tinonggos in the same municipality. The two were reportedly onboard a green multicab traversing a barangay road when they were suddenly attacked.
According to initial findings released by authorities, the incident occurred at around 5:00 p.m. when gunmen opened fire on the victims’ vehicle without warning. The sustained gunfire left both men with multiple gunshot wounds in different parts of their bodies, causing their instantaneous deaths.
“The victims were declared dead on the spot due to the severity of their injuries,” said Police Captain Klyde John Alvores, Deputy Chief for Operations of the Datu Odin Sinsuat Municipal Police Station.
Residents in the area reported that the vehicle used by the victims was later brought to Barangay Dalican, also within the municipality, though details surrounding its transfer remain unclear as of this writing.
Authorities have yet to identify the perpetrators, who immediately fled the scene after the attack. A manhunt operation is now underway as investigators continue to gather evidence and interview potential witnesses.
Police have not ruled out any angle, including personal grudges or organized armed activity, as possible motives behind the killing. However, officials emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing.
The incident underscores persistent security challenges in parts of Maguindanao del Norte, where sporadic violence continues to be reported despite intensified law enforcement efforts.
Authorities are urging anyone with information that may help in the identification and arrest of the suspects to coordinate with local police.
Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.