4 killed in encounter of supporters of mayoral candidates in Basilan

At least two incidents were recorded over the weekend, just days away from the national and local elections, with at least four persons killed in an encounter among supporters of mayoral candidates in Langil Island, Basilan.

Police said the encounter was between the supporters of mayoral candidates in Hadji Mohammad Ajul, Basilan on Sunday morning, as reported on GMA’s “24 Oras Weekend” on Sunday.

The Special Action Force (SAF) and local police responded to the incident, with authorities still investigating the matter.

According to the 11th Infantry Division of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), preliminary reports indicate that the two parties exchanged fire, with at least one fatality each from the side.

“The incident underscores the continued threat posed by politically motivated violence in conflict-affected areas,” the AFP said.

“Joint Task Force Orion is reinforcing its area security protocols, inter-agency coordination, and community engagement initiatives to uphold peace and democratic stability in the region,” it added.

In a separate incident that happened in Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija a motorcycle rider was caught on video footage throwing a grenade at a barangay hall.

Another rider, who was passing by when the explosion happened ,was hit by shrapnel on the nape. He was brought to a nearby hospital, and declared safe. The barangay hall sustained damages on the roof, and the walls.

The barangay captain declined to comment on the matter for safety reasons, while authorities continue to investigate the matter. — Jon Viktor Cabuenas/BAP, GMA Integrated News