Manila: Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. on Monday ordered the Bangsamoro police to provide immediate and sustained support to the families of the police officers who were ambushed Saturday night in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao del Sur.
According to Philippines News Agency, Nartatez expressed condolences to the families of the fallen officers during Monday's flag-raising ceremony at Camp Crame, where a minute of silence was observed. He emphasized the PNP's commitment to support the families, stating that the sacrifices of the officers would not be forgotten or in vain.
Nartatez condemned the ambush as an attack on peace and order and vowed that the PNP would pursue accountability for the perpetrators. He asserted that such violence has no place in the country and that the PNP would not retreat or be intimidated until justice is served.
PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf Tua±o, in a press briefing, assured that the injured officers are out of danger. The PNP will cover hospital expenses and provide special financial assistance from both the agency and the Office of the President. Tua±o noted that a meeting was held to discuss posthumous awards and financial support for the victims' families.
Authorities are currently investigating the potential involvement of a local terrorist group, with suspicions of a retaliatory attack linked to recent government operations against the group. Tua±o mentioned that these attacks could be in response to recent accomplishments by government troops.
In response to the incident, Nartatez ordered a review of operational procedures and enhanced security measures, including deploying additional rapid response teams, establishing random checkpoints, and conducting unpredictable patrols.
The ambush resulted in the deaths of five officers from the 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company, with three others wounded when their vehicle was attacked near Camp Akilan in Barangay Mother Poblacion on March 28. Manhunt operations are currently underway.
Nartatez affirmed that the attack would not deter the PNP's efforts to maintain peace and order, aiming to foster development in Maguindanao del Sur and neighboring regions.
