DIGOS CITY, Davao del Sur — A barangay tanod narrowly escaped possible death after unidentified individuals allegedly hurled an MK-2 fragmentation grenade at him while he was conducting a patrol along the banks of the Caños Digos River before dawn on Saturday, May 16.
The victim was identified as Ali Kasan, a barangay tanod assigned in Zone 1, Digos City. According to his account, he was patrolling the cemented portion of the river control area when he encountered three unidentified men.
Kasan said the suspects suddenly threw an object toward his direction without any apparent provocation. Initially believing it was only a stone, the tanod continued moving along the riverside until he realized the object was actually a live grenade.
Upon discovering the explosive, Kasan immediately jumped toward the river control structure in panic and fear that the grenade would detonate.
Fortunately, the MK-2 fragmentation grenade failed to explode after authorities later discovered that its safety pin had not been removed.
The unexploded grenade was immediately recovered and reported to Zone 1 Barangay Captain Jay Medina, who promptly coordinated with personnel from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit for proper handling and disposal of the explosive device.
Authorities have yet to identify the three individuals allegedly involved in the incident, while an investigation is ongoing to determine the motive behind the attack and whether the incident was intended to intimidate or harm the barangay official.
The incident caused alarm among residents in the area, particularly due to the potential danger posed by the live explosive in a populated community.
Police and EOD personnel reminded the public not to touch or approach suspicious objects and to immediately report such incidents to authorities to prevent casualties and ensure proper disposal of explosive materials.