A wanted murder suspect was killed while police officers were serving a warrant of arrest in Barangay Kuloy, Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao del Sur early Sunday morning, August 23, following an armed confrontation that also left his wife injured and another companion arrested.
The operation involved personnel from the Maguindanao del Sur Provincial Mobile Force Company, Shariff Aguak Municipal Police Station, and the Provincial Intelligence Unit, with intelligence support from the Police Regional Office Bangsamoro Autonomous Region.
According to police, the operation was conducted in connection with a murder case filed against the suspect in 2014. The man, identified only by his alias “London,” allegedly opened fire at the operating team after officers identified themselves and ordered him to surrender peacefully.
Police officers returned fire, resulting in the suspect sustaining gunshot wounds.
He was immediately brought to a medical facility for treatment but was declared dead on arrival.
Wife injured during encounter
The suspect’s wife was also injured during the exchange of gunfire and is currently receiving medical treatment. Police personnel have been assisting her while authorities continue documenting the circumstances surrounding the operation.
Chief PNP Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. specifically directed the concerned police units to ensure that the incident is thoroughly documented and reviewed, particularly the circumstances surrounding the injury sustained by the suspect’s wife.
The directive underscores the need for accountability and proper operational procedures in the conduct of police operations, especially those involving armed suspects and the use of firearms.
Companion arrested with hand grenade
Another companion of the wanted man, identified by the alias “Cobra,” was arrested during the operation.
Police said Cobra was found in possession of a hand grenade. Authorities are expected to file the appropriate charges against him in connection with the possession of the explosive device, in addition to any other offenses that may be established during the investigation.
The police operation was part of continuing efforts to locate and arrest wanted persons and address threats to public safety in the Bangsamoro region.
PNP stresses restraint and discipline
PGen Nartatez said the incident highlights the risks police officers face while carrying out lawful duties, particularly during operations against armed and wanted individuals.
“We know the risks that come with this job, but every operation must still be handled with discipline and care. Ang mahalaga, our officers act within the law and do everything possible to resolve an encounter without unnecessary harm,” Nartatez said.
His statement emphasized that while police officers must protect themselves and others when confronted with armed resistance, every operation must remain guided by established rules, restraint, and accountability.
The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain subject to documentation and review by the concerned police units.
The operation forms part of the Philippine National Police’s continuing implementation of the Enhanced Managing Police Operations (EMPO) pillar under the PNP Focused Agenda, which seeks to strengthen police efforts against wanted persons and other threats to public safety.
It also supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s broader call for stronger peace and order initiatives and more responsive public service.
Authorities are expected to determine the full circumstances of the armed confrontation, including the sequence of events that led to the shooting and the injury of the suspect’s wife.