KABACAN, Cotabato — Five suspected criminals, including a notorious armed group leader tagged as a “security enforcer” in the area, were killed in a predawn joint security operation in Sitio Dima, Barangay Lower Paatan, Kabacan on December 16, 2025, after authorities came under fire while serving multiple warrants.
Police identified the primary target as Ibrahim Macalnas, also known as “Commander Bigkog” or “Commander Bigkuk,” a former member of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Base Command who had a standing warrant of arrest for murder. Authorities said Macalnas had long been considered a dominant figure in the area, allegedly providing protection to wanted individuals and criminal activities.
Also killed were Datukan Macalnas, the leader’s brother; Ismael Luncayao (also referred to as Suob Lungkayaw/“Isa”), the prime suspect in the recent killing of a malunggay pandesal vendor; and two other unidentified armed men. A hand grenade was recovered near one of the fatalities, prompting the deployment of an AFP Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team to secure the area.
According to Police Lt. Col. April Lu Palma, the operation was conducted by combined units of the PNP, AFP, and PDEA to serve a warrant of arrest against Macalnas and multiple search warrants for violations of Republic Act 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act) and Republic Act 10591 (Illegal Possession of Firearms and Ammunition).
Police said the suspects opened fire, forcing government forces to retaliate. No casualties were reported on the side of the authorities.
“This area has long been considered a safe haven of wanted individuals because it is remote and difficult to access by regular government services and security forces,” Palma said, adding that this was the first successful penetration of the area by government operatives.
Firearms, Grenade Recovered
Authorities recovered several firearms from the scene, including:
- One 7.62mm rifle with magazine
- Two .45 caliber pistols with loaded magazines
- One 12-gauge shotgun
- One hand grenade
Arrests and Drug Seizures
While three targets managed to escape, police arrested Monera Macalnas, 38, married, a businesswoman, who was found in possession of 12 sachets of suspected shabu weighing approximately 3 grams, with an estimated value of ₱20,400.
Search operations also yielded drug evidence linked to other suspects now at large, including Tegy Macalnas, Nasrudin Gumonsang, and Alinor Gumonsang, from whom authorities reportedly recovered additional sachets of suspected shabu and a 9mm pistol without a serial number.
Security Clampdown, Community Services Planned
Police believe the death of Commander Bigkog will have a significant impact on local security, describing him as a “siga-siga” or feared power broker in the area.
To prevent retaliation, the PNP and AFP will maintain a continuous presence, establishing 24/7 security outposts in Sitio Dima. Authorities also said they will coordinate with the local government and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to bring social services into the barangay and help rebuild community trust.
Police urged residents of Kabacan to cooperate and share information, assuring them of protection as authorities intensify efforts to dismantle remaining criminal networks operating in the area.
An investigation into the incident is ongoing, while the manhunt continues for the suspects who escaped the operation.