Two men were killed while two police officers were injured after a raid targeting loose firearms in Makilala, Cotabato resulted in a firefight.

Police officers launched the operation by virtue of a search warrant against a businessman in Barangay Bulakanon for alleged violation of the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act (RA 10591).

However, the operation turned violent when the suspect’s armed security men opened fire upon sensing the presence of the operating team.

A brief exchange of fire ensued, hitting two of the suspect’s armed men identified as alias “Jonvic” and alias “Paul” who were also alleged members of the Philippine Army. They were rushed to the hospital but were declared dead on arrival.

Two members of the 1203ed Maneuver Company of the Regional Mobile Force battalion 12 identified as Corporal Jayson Jungco and Patrolman Christian Neyra also sustained gunshot wounds but are now in stable condition, as of this writing.

The subject of the warrant was arrested.

Seized from the suspect’s premises were rifles, pistols, hand grenades, and ammunition.

The firearms confiscated will be submitted to the Provincial Forensic Unit for ballistic examination while the recovered explosives will be turned over to the PNP Explosives and Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit.

“This incident underscores the dangers our personnel face in the performance of duty. Despite the risks, PRO 12 remains steadfast in its mission to rid our communities of loose firearms and to ensure that those who blatantly violate the law,” Police Regional Office-12 Director, Brigadier General Romeo Macapaz, said.

The two injured police officers were awarded with the Medalya ng Sugatang Magiting for their courage in the performance of duty.

“The heroism shown by PCpl Jungco and Pat Neyra is a testament to the commitment of the PNP to uphold the rule of law and protect our communities,” Macapaz added.