3 gov’t troops killed in  Maguindanao anti-drug operations

Army soldiers in Mindanao. (JEOFFREY MAITEM/INQUIRER MINDANAO)

COTABATO CITY – Three government troopers were killed and five others were hurt in a clash during anti-drug operations on the borders of Maguindanao and North Cotabato Sunday.

Government forces composed of Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) operatives, North Cotabato police  and the 6th Infantry Division Recon Company (DRC) were to serve search warrants against a certain Commander Madrox, a leader of a  Moro “lawless” group in Barangay Nabalawag, Midsayap, North Cotabato at 4:30 a.m. when the fire fight erupted.

Killed were PO3 Darwin Espallardo of the North Cotabato PNP and Corporal Jose Miravalles and Private First Class Jaypee Duran, both of Division Recon Company.

Wounded were Sergeant Arinio Grafil, Private Normel Grande, Corporal Diocesar Espanola, Pfc. Romnick Clerigo, Pvt. Edgar Gegone, all of the 6th DRC.

Government forces were met by a volley of gunfire as they entered the village.  SFM/rga

North Cotabato map. (Google Maps)