June 29, 2025 – Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte
Two men were killed in broad daylight after unidentified gunmen ambushed their vehicle along a section of the Cotabato-Isulan Highway in Barangay Bitu, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte, on Sunday morning, June 29.
The victims, identified as 42-year-old Lidasan Tahir Nanalong and 43-year-old Thannie Undong Malang, both residents of Cotabato City, were onboard a black Honda Civic when they were riddled with bullets by assailants reportedly lying in wait along the highway.
According to the initial report from the Datu Odin Sinsuat Municipal Police Station, the victims were en route to Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat, when the armed suspects opened fire on their vehicle. Both men died on the spot from multiple gunshot wounds. The vehicle was found riddled with bullets, suggesting a well-planned and brutal attack.
Barangay officials and responding police personnel confirmed that the gunmen swiftly fled the scene after the ambush, leaving no immediate trace. Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the motive and identify the suspects involved.
This incident is the latest in a string of killings that continue to plague Maguindanao del Norte and other parts of the Bangsamoro region. Despite ongoing peace and development efforts, the persistence of gun violence has raised growing concerns over the effectiveness of law enforcement and the safety of civilians in the area.
The local government and police have appealed to the public for any information that may help solve the case. Meanwhile, peace advocates are reiterating calls for stronger security measures and community cooperation to curb the cycle of violence in the region.