An alleged member of an armed group was killed in an encounter with government troops in Pangutaran, Sulu.

According to the Army’s 100th Infantry Battalion, personnel of the Pangutaran Municipal Police Station were on routine security patrol when they reportedly exchanged fire with an armed group of around 10 members.

The policemen then requested reinforcement from troops of the 100th Infantry Battalion, and authorities implemented security measures to contain the threat while prioritizing the safety of residents.

After the armed confrontation, government forces secured the area.

The military said no casualties were reported on the government side but an alleged member of the armed group was reported killed during the firefight.

Authorities also recovered several firearms, including a rifle and a pistol, and up to 187 rounds of ammunition.

The remains of the slain suspect were turned over to the barangay officials of Barangay Se-Ipang for proper burial rites.

The military maintained that through a swift and coordinated response, police operatives and soldiers addressed an armed security threat and prevented the situation from posing greater danger to communities nearby.

“The incident underscores the importance of the Municipal Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Center (MJPSCC) as an effective platform for coordination between the Philippine National Police and the Philippine Army. By promoting timely information sharing, operational coordination, and a unified response, the MJPSCC enables security agencies to address emerging threats more efficiently while safeguarding communities,” 100th Infantry Battalion said.