Five members of the Asim family were injured after armed men opened fire late Tuesday night, March 2, along the boundary of two areas in Maguindanao del Sur and Cotabato, authorities said.
According to a report from the Police Regional Office – Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, the victims were identified as Yahya Asim, Irene Asim, Rowena Asim, Ramadin Asim, and Haladin Asim — all residents of Barangay Duaminanga in Datu Piang.
The shooting occurred at around 11:30 p.m. near the boundaries of Barangays Duaminanga and Kalipapa in Datu Piang and Barangay Lumopog in Midsayap, an area within the Special Geographic Area (SGA) of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
Sudden Burst of Gunfire
Initial police investigation revealed that the victims were suddenly fired upon by a group of armed men using different types of firearms. The burst of gunfire left the five family members wounded, prompting panic among residents in the nearby communities.
Responding police units quickly arrived at the scene to secure the area and protect civilians. The injured victims were rushed to nearby hospitals and are now recovering from their gunshot wounds.
The incident also triggered fear among residents, with several families reportedly fleeing their homes following the attack.
Suspects Identified
Authorities have identified several individuals allegedly involved in the attack. Named in the initial report were Kumander Sukarno, Abugado, Tameng Salangon Paglas, Fahad Paglas, Derie Paglas, and another individual identified only as “Mads.” All are reportedly residents of Barangay Lumopog in the SGA area of BARMM.
Investigators said the suspects allegedly went to the boundaries of Barangays Duaminanga and Kalipapa before opening fire, resulting in the injuries sustained by the victims.
Heightened Security Measures
In response to the incident and rising tensions in the area, the Datu Piang Municipal Police Station launched intensified checkpoint operations across affected barangays. The operation is being carried out in coordination with military forces, including the 38th Infantry Battalion and the 6th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, as well as other police units.
Authorities said the heightened security measures aim to prevent the violence from escalating and affecting nearby communities.
Meanwhile, barangay officials have stepped in to mediate and help de-escalate tensions between the parties involved.
Police said the investigation into the shooting is ongoing as authorities continue to track down the suspects and determine the motive behind the attack.