Don Carlos, Bukidnon – The Bukidnon Police Provincial Office has extended commendations to the wounded officers of the Don Carlos Municipal Police Station for their exceptional courage and dedication during an armed confrontation in Purok 3, Barangay Bocboc, Don Carlos, Bukidnon, on March 5, 2025.
A response team, led by PCPT Gregorio N. Lumba, Officer In-Charge of the Don Carlos Municipal Police Station, was deployed to investigate reports of an illegal discharge of a firearm. Upon arriving at the suspects’ residence, the officers were met with a sudden burst of gunfire, injuring two police personnel. Despite their injuries, the officers retaliated and called for reinforcements. The wounded officers were immediately transported to Don Carlos Doctors Hospital, where they are now in stable condition.
A hot pursuit operation was launched, leading to the successful apprehension of two suspects, aged 72 and 44, who had attempted to flee the scene after engaging the police in a firefight. The operation continued the following day, and at around 8:30 AM on March 6, 2025, authorities—including personnel from the Don Carlos Municipal Police Station, Bukidnon 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company, Task Force Kalinaw, and PIU BUKPPO—successfully captured a third suspect at a rubber plantation near Lalapoy Bridge, Barangay Bocboc, Don Carlos, Bukidnon.
Recovered from the suspects were a cache of firearms and explosives, including one hand grenade, two .38 caliber revolvers with live ammunition, a 12-gauge improvised shotgun, a caliber .22 Squires Bingham rifle attached with a Bushnell scope and suppressor, a converted air rifle modified to a caliber .22 rifle, and a homemade gun.
PCOL Culaway acknowledged the heroism of the wounded officers, stating, “The bravery displayed by these officers, despite being under direct fire, highlights their unwavering commitment to their duty. Their swift response and resilience ensured the safety of their fellow personnel and led to the arrest of three suspects. Their dedication to serving and protecting the community is a testament to their strength and courage.”
With all suspects now in custody, the Bukidnon Police Provincial Office reassures the public of its commitment to upholding justice and maintaining peace and order in the province.