Basilan: Pursuit operations are underway against an armed attacker of two Army soldiers in Tipo-Tipo town of the province on Monday afternoon.
According to Philippines News Agency, the incident has prompted immediate action from the military and police authorities. Brig. Gen. Frederick Sales, the Army's 1101st Infantry Brigade commander, emphasized the severity of the attack, stating, "This attack on our personnel is an assault on the security and stability of our communities." He further assured the public that all available resources are being utilized to locate and apprehend the suspect promptly.
The wounded victims have been identified as PFC Mark Anthony Libo-on, 23, and PFC Jomare Sadjail, both serving in the Army's 45th Infantry Battalion (45IB). The two soldiers were reportedly purchasing basic necessities at a community store approximately 200 meters from their camp when they were shot around 5:28 p.m. on Monday.
Following the attack, the Tipo-Tipo police activated dragnet operations, coordinating with neighboring police stations. Meanwhile, the 45IB launched hot pursuit operations in the mountainous terrain to track down the perpetrator. Both soldiers, who sustained gunshot wounds, were immediately rushed to a hospital for treatment. Authorities recovered two empty shells from a .45 pistol at the crime scene.
Brig. Gen. Sales assured the public of the military and police's commitment to strengthening security measures in Tipo-Tipo to prevent similar incidents in the future.
