The police are investigating the possibility that the ambush against the Maguindanao del Sur mayor was carried out by hired gunmen, an official said Monday. A Special Investigation Task Group (SITG has been formed to collect forensic evidence and firearms that will strengthen the case against those responsible.
According to PBGen. Randulf Tuaño, chief of the Philippine National Police Public Information Office, all units in the Bangsamoro region have been ordered to identify and arrest the mastermind of the ambush, as ordered by PNP Chief LtGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.
“‘The motive, sir, is being established now — they are looking into whether this hired gunman scenario is possible,” said Tuaño. He added that PRO BAR is actively gathering evidence to prove whether the suspects are truly hired killers.
On Sunday morning, gunmen attacked the convoy of Shariff Aguak Mayor Akmad Mitra Ampatuan in Barangay Poblacion while he was returning home. Although the mayor survived, two of his security escorts were wounded. Three of the suspects were killed while the driver is still being pursued by police. One of the slain, known as alias Raprap, has three outstanding warrants for murder, robbery, and violation of the 2023 election gun ban.
The police are also determining if there were security lapses at local stations, especially since this is the fourth assassination attempt on Ampatuan. The Bangsamoro police is also ensuring the intensification of the campaign against loose firearms to prevent this type of incident and maintain public safety.
According to Tuaño, Raprap may have used his relatives in the plan, including an uncle, cousin, and sibling as a driver, in a type of gun-for-hire attack.
Meanwhile, Malacañang condemned the attempted murder. According to Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro, the President ordered the DILG to immediately investigate the incident and extend peace and order measures in the country. The government also encouraged the public to immediately report any suspicious acts to be provided with protection.
