Maguindanao del Sur map. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — The military’s Western Mindanao Command said Monday that two “lawless elements” were killed over the weekend during an “armed conflict” in Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao Del Sur.
Authorities said the shootout ensued after two men aboard a motorcycle tried to avoid inspection at a checkpoint in front of the 23rd Mechanized Company Command Post in Barangay Elian at 11:25 a.m. on March 11. The suspects were identified as Muhamadin Salim, 24, and Manan Udza, 27.
“Instead of submitting themselves for inspection, the tandem drove off their motorcycle, but they were blocked by the troops manning the chokepoint,” the Wesmincom said in a statement.
“The pillion rider abruptly opened fire, which forced the operating troops to retaliate. An exchange of fires ensued, which resulted in the deaths of the two lawless elements,” it added.
The military said soldiers recovered one cal. 45 pistol, one improvised explosive device (IED), and one red Honda XRM motorcycle from the two men, whose remains were transferred to the custody of the Datu Saudi Ampatuan Municipal Police Station and later claimed by their respective families.
The seized gun and motorcycle were also turned over to the police while the IED was entrusted to the Philippine Army’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team. — Kimberly D. Albaño, trainee
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