Updated (8:13 p.m.)
MANILA, Philippines — Two murder suspects were killed while eight police officers were injured as lawmen served warrants of arrest in Barangay Tabaran in Madamba, Lanao del Sur on Wednesday.
The police said they were about to serve arrest warrants for murder against Usop Malubay Abdulziz, Abdulaziz Macalatas Abombay, Zanodin Moro, Macaltas Ameril, Alican Macabuntal, alias “Midig Usman,” and Usman Barating Macabuntal at around 11:30 p.m. when they opened fire at them.
The lawmen retaliated, killing Moro and Ameril on the spot.
The injured police officers were identified as PCapt. Glen Lyka Gevero, PCapt. Mark Harry Boglosa, PSMSg Marlon Panitan, PSSg Magno Olete, PSSg Nino Cadano, Par Arnel Montallana, PCpl Ronald Rosco, PCpl Omar Masakal. They were brought to the Amai Pakpak Hospital in Marawi City for treatment.
PCpl Gilbert Males was reported missing during the encounter, and a Toyota Patrol car was set on fire after it was hit by an M203 projectile.
Police recovered from the encounter site M16 rifles and a grenade launcher.
Three other suspects have evaded the authorities. A manhunt operation is ongoing.
Meanwhile, the 55th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army and local authorities of the municipality of Madamba have fielded rescue teams to help search for the missing policeman. /ee