The family of the 16-year-old boy who was found dead at the site where four soldiers were killed in an ambush in Datu Hoffer, Maguindanao del Sur is seeking justice.

The boy, identified as Abdulrahman Esmail, was found dead morning on March 18, 2024, the day after four soldiers were ambushed on their way back to base from buying food supplies for the “iftar” (meals served after a day of fasting during Ramadan).

He is the eldest of nine siblings.

According to the boy’s father, his son went out on board his motorcycle to check on their cow in the area, but he failed to return home, prompting the family to ask for assistance from the barangay.

The father also attempted to follow his son but did not push reportedly after learning thatthe boy was allegedly arrested by the military. 

“Hindi na ako nakatuloy kasi merong nakapagsabi na may sundalo sa loob na marami pero hawak nila ang bata kasi may nakapagsabi na nadakip ng sundalo ang bata,” the boy’s father, Salahuddin, said.

Salahuddin said they heard gunshots evening on March 17.

"Pagkarinig naming, wala namang response sa putukan… marami pero walang response, sa kanila nanggaling ang putok,” Salahuddin said.

Police confirmed that an armed confrontation between troops of the 40th Infantry Battalion and the armed group allegedly responsible for the ambush happened around 7 p.m. on March 17.

"Pagka-buntag (March 18), nag-conduct sila (40TH IB) og combat clearing operations within sa vicinity sa ambush area, ug didto nakita nila ang usa ka patay'ng lawas,” Datu Hoffer Municipal Police Statioin Officer-in-Charge, Lt. Albert Pansoy Jr., said.

Authorities added that the boy sustained a gunshot wound and injuries in the hands, feet, and face when found.

"Pagdating sa area, pina-identify lang sa pamilya tapos kung yun ba ang hinanap nila na bata. Gikuha na mismo, diretso og kuha para malubong dayon, mao man gyud na ilang ginabuhat kay within 24 hours malubong dayon ang patay'ng lawas,” Pansoy added.

GMA Regional TV One Mindanao is reaching out to officials of 40IB for comment.

Police advised the family to lodge a formal complaint if they want to do so.

"Kung naa sila’y reklamo i-cater namo diri sa police station. Hinihikayat namin sila para 'yung side ng story naman nila ang marinig at ma-blotter rin kung gusto nila mag-complain,” Pansoy said.

The local government condemned the incident and has already extended its sympathies and assistance to the bereaved family.