PNP condemns deadly blast in Cotabato City as ‘cowardly attack’

National Police investigators examine the site at the South Seas Mall following an explosion on New Year’s Eve in Cotabato city, southern Philippines Monday, Dec. 31, 2018. Maj. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana says the bomb went off Monday near the entrance of the mall as people made last-minute preparations ahead of New Year celebrations killing at least two people and wounding 32 others. (AP Photo/Rainier Canoso)

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Oscar Albayalde has condemned the deadly blast in stalls selling fireworks in front of the South Seas Mall in Cotabato City on Monday.

Albayalde described the explosion, which killed two victims and injured 32 others, as a “cowardly attack” perpetrated by a still unknown suspect, hours before the celebration of the New Year.

“The Philippine National Police strongly condemns these despicable acts of violence perpetrated this afternoon by unknown elements in Cotabato City,” he said in a statement.

Albayalde said he has already ordered the creation of a special investigation task group to probe on the explosion.

Initial investigation showed the blast ripped through the stalls after a man threw in the area a wrapped box later discovered as an improvised explosive device.

“We sincerely express our deep sympathy and offer our fervent prayers to the families of those killed and injured, even as we vow to mobilize all available resources in order to quickly bring to the bars of justice those responsible for these cowardly attacks against innocent civilians,” he said.

Albayalde also urged the public to report to authorities information that may lead to the arrest of those behind the blast.

The Soccsksargen police may be reached through its hotline numbers: 0921 989 8174 and 0926 650 0628./ac

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