In a statement, PRO 12 Regional Director Brig. Gen. Alexander Tagum said that about 3 a.m., a Joint Task Force
served a warrant of arrest against Joel Manampan alias “Maula Manampan” charged with several murder cases.
Manampan is reportedly listed as Most Wanted Person in the National Level with a monetary reward of P175,000.
As the main elements of the operating units reached the said place, they were fired upon by the subject and other unidentified cohorts positioned in several fortified locations which led to an intense firefight.
As a result, four PNP personnel were wounded in action namely: Lt. Xiart Gatinao, who sustained two gunshot wounds in his left upper arm and shoulder; Pat.Aden Cocal in his upper leg; Pat. Christian Carl Ansing in the upper right back portion of his body, and Cpl. James Jay Belonio, hit on his worn bullet vest that caused a Hematoma on the upper back portion of his body.
The subject was able to escape taking advantage of the darkness while five armed suspects were fatally injured during the encounter identified as Badrudin Masulot Dalid, Mudgiahed Saligan Hamsa, Arbaya Dalid Panisares, Asraf Dalid Masulot and Bunta Kabunto.
Tagum said several illegal firearms and ammunition were recovered from the possession of the suspects.
Also, suspect identified as Mohidin Dalagonan Mantok was arrested for illegal possession of firearms- M14 Assault Rifle with Bandolier and Ammunition.
Socsargen's top cop said during the clearing of the area, the operating unit discovered more than 400 units of motorcycles hidden inside a makeshift warehouse and assorted IED components.
The wounded PNP personnel and suspects were immediately brought to the nearest hospital for medical intervention, however the five suspects were declared Dead on Arrival by the attending physician.
He said the bodies of the suspects were properly turned-over to their immediate families in observance of the Islamic Funeral Traditions.
The recovered evidence including the undocument units of motorcycle some of which were possible identified as forcibly taken or carnapped motorcycles were brought to Cotabato Police Provincial Office ground in Amas, Kidapawan City for further investigation.
"Unfortunately due to the late hours and lacking transport trucks- some of the motorcycles were left to the local Brgy Officials in the area," he said.
Tagum said he is serious in his intensified implementation of Oplan: Iron Clad XII which aims to deter the occurrence of crimes and ensure the safety and security of our communities.
“PRO 12’s unwavering commitment and dedication to duty (with total disregard of the Holiday Season and the Dangerous Situation that they may confront) is a manifestation that we are serious in eliminating all forms of criminalities and illegal activities in our community, " he said.
Photo from Brig. Gen. Alexander Tagum
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