BULDON, Maguindanao del Norte — Authorities have launched a hot pursuit operation and tightened security measures following an alleged armed confrontation between two families involved in a long-standing clan feud (rido) in Sitio Simsiman, Barangay Mataya, Buldon, on the morning of Friday, July 3.
According to the Buldon Municipal Police Station (MPS), the exchange of gunfire reportedly erupted at around 7:25 a.m. between members of the Abubakar and Undaki families, whose long-running dispute is believed to have triggered the incident.
Police said a concerned citizen alerted authorities at approximately 7:30 a.m. after hearing successive gunshots in the area.
A response team from the Buldon MPS, led by PCPT Elmar Elarcosa, immediately proceeded to the scene at around 7:35 a.m. together with PCOL George Bagundol, Provincial Director, and personnel from the 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company, 3rd Mobile Platoon.
However, by the time law enforcement officers arrived, the gunfire had already ceased and the suspected participants had fled in different directions.
Initial police findings indicate that the confrontation stemmed from a long-standing rido, or clan conflict, between the two families. Investigators are also looking into reports suggesting that some members of the Undaki family were allegedly planning to retaliate against the Abubakar family, which may have escalated tensions leading up to the incident.
Despite the exchange of gunfire, authorities confirmed that no fatalities, injuries, or stray-bullet victims were recorded, and no civilians were reported harmed during the confrontation.
Following the incident, the Buldon MPS immediately heightened security in the area to prevent any retaliatory attacks or further escalation of violence.
Police are currently conducting hot pursuit operations, intelligence gathering, and a comprehensive investigation to identify and apprehend those involved.
Authorities are likewise coordinating closely with the local government and other concerned agencies in an effort to contain the situation, prevent the conflict from worsening, and facilitate peaceful interventions between the feuding families.
The Philippine National Police urged residents to remain vigilant, avoid areas where tensions may still exist, and immediately report any suspicious activities or information that could help authorities locate the individuals involved.
The investigation remains ongoing.