Philippine mayor survives convoy ambush; three suspects killed in pursuit
Shariff Aguak Mayor Akmad Ampatuan survived an ambush on his convoy in Maguindanao del Sur, with two escorts injured. Three suspected attackers were killed during a police-military pursuit. Authorities are investigating possible political or clan-related motives.
- Philippine mayor Akmad Ampatuan escaped unhurt after a convoy ambush in Maguindanao del Sur
- Three suspected gunmen were killed in a police-Army pursuit operation
- PNP formed a special task group to identify masterminds and motives
PHILIPPINES: Shariff Aguak Mayor Akmad “Mitra” Ampatuan escaped unhurt after gunmen ambushed his two-vehicle convoy in Maguindanao del Sur on Sunday (25 Jan) morning, injuring two of his security escorts, police said.
The attack occurred at around 6.30am in Barangay Poblacion while Ampatuan was travelling in a bulletproof black sports utility vehicle.
His backup pickup truck was also struck by gunfire.
Hot Pursuit Ends in Fatal Clash
A joint police, military and community watch team launched a hot pursuit after the attackers fled in a white or grey minivan.
The chase led authorities to Barangay Meta in Datu Unsay, where the suspects engaged security forces in a brief gunfight.
Three alleged gunmen were killed during the exchange, and their vehicle was recovered.
Police said high-powered firearms were found inside the minivan.
Injured Escorts Recovering
Ampatuan’s executive assistant, Anwar Kuit Emblawa, confirmed that the mayor was unharmed.
Two security personnel sustained non-life-threatening injuries and are receiving treatment at the Bangsamoro Regional and Medical Center in Datu Hoffer.
Investigation and Possible Motives
Authorities are investigating the identities of the suspects and the motive behind the ambush, including the possibility of political rivalry or clan-related conflict, which has long affected security in the province.
The incident marks the third assassination attempt on Ampatuan in recent years.
PNP Forms Special Task Group
Philippine National Police (PNP) acting chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said a Special Investigation Task Group would be formed to collect forensic evidence from the recovered vehicle and firearms and to identify the mastermind behind the attack.
He directed the Police Regional Office–Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO-BAR) to intensify operations against loose firearms and reaffirmed the PNP’s stance against political violence.
Mayor Links Attempts, Offers Aid
Speaking at a press briefing on Monday at the Shariff Aguak municipal hall, Ampatuan said he believed the four attempts on his life since 2010 may share the same motive, although he said he had no known enemies.
He said previous ambushes occurred in Guindulungan in 2010, and in Shariff Aguak in 2014 and 2019.
Ampatuan added that he would assist the families of the three suspects killed during the pursuit if needed.
