A man was killed while his companion was arrested in an anti-illegal drug operation in Midsayap, Cotabato.

According to the Police Regional Office-SOCCSKSARGEN (PRO-12), police officers were about to serve a search warrant against the man in Barangay Rangaban for alleged violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act (RA 9165) when someone from inside the house opened fire.

Authorities retaliated, which resulted in the death of the man and the arrest of his companion, a 49-year-old farmer and the subject of the warrant.

Seized from the suspects were sachets of suspected shabu worth more than P68,000, pistols, and ammunition.

The suspect arrested and the confiscated items were brought to the Midsayap Municipal Police Station.

PRO-12 Director, Brigader General Romeo Macapaz, lauded the operating team for the successful operation.

“We will not allow lawless elements to threaten the safety of our people. Our campaign will continue, relentless and uncompromising, until peace is secured in every barangay of Region 12,” Macapaz added.