Two police officers perished in an ambush on Wednesday, June 14, in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao Del Sur.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) identified the fatalities as Pat. Saipoden Shiek Macacuna and Pat. Bryan Polayagan, members of the Provincial Mobile Force Company of the Maguindanao Police Provincial Office.
Four other police officers also suffered injuries due to the ambush, and, as of the latest report, undergoes medical treatment.
PNP identified the wounded police personnel as Pat. Arjie Val Loie Pabinguit, Pat. Abdulgafor Alib, PSSg Benjie Delos Reyes, and PCMS Rey Vincent Gertos.
Reports state that the ambush happened while the police officers, onboard a PNP-marked vehicle, headed to the Maguindanao Provincial Police Office Headquarters in Camp Datu Akilan, Shariff Aguak, after conducting routine mobile patrol operations in the area.
While no group has claimed responsibility for the attack, reports state that the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters operated within the area.
The PNP condemned the incident, and has ordered the conduct of manhunt operations against the perpetrators of the ambush.
"The PNP has mobilized its forces, including the elements of PMFC MDS PPO and 41st SAC-PNP SAF, to launch immediate hot pursuit and clearing operations," PGen. Benjamin Acorda, chief of PNP, said in a statement
"We assure the public that no stone will be left unturned in bringing the perpetrators to justice and ensuring the safety and security of our communities," Acorda added.
