Shariff aguak: Mayor Akmad Ampatuan of Shariff Aguak in Maguindanao del Sur survived an ambush on his two-vehicle convoy unscathed on Sunday morning. However, two of his security escorts sustained injuries in the attack.
According to Philippines News Agency, three alleged ambushers were killed in a pursuit operation conducted by a joint team of police and Army personnel. The mayor's executive assistant, Anwar Kuit Emblawa, communicated to reporters via text message that "the mayor is safe" following the incident.
The ambush occurred around 6:30 a.m. in Barangay Poblacion while Mayor Ampatuan was traveling in his bulletproof black sports utility vehicle. The backup vehicle, which was a pickup truck, was also struck by bullets during the attack. The injured escorts are currently receiving treatment for non-life-threatening injuries at the Bangsamoro Regional and Medical Center in Datu Hoffer.
The suspects, who were in a white minivan, were found with high-powered firearms. This marks the third attempt on Mayor Ampatuan's life in the past five years. The motive behind the latest attack remains unknown as investigations continue.
