An alleged leader of a group linked to several killings was killed in an armed confrontation while authorities were serving arrest warrants in Salvador, Lanao del Norte, on Monday, August 17, 2026.

According to the Police Regional Office-Northern Mindanao (PRO-10), the suspect identified as alias “Talib” was the leader of Masaronay Group.

He was tagged as the number seven most wanted person in Lanao del Norte and had warrants for seven counts of murder, one count of frustrated murder, and for another murder case.

PRO-10 said that based on intelligence reports, the group was allegedly involved in illegal drug trafficking reportedly used to general financial support for the Dawlah Islamiyah-Maute Group-linked personalities; gun-for-hire activities; providing financial support and shelter to DI-Maute-linked personalities allegedly in exchange for protection; and several shooting and other serious criminal incidents.

During the August 17 operation, the suspect allegedly fired shots at the arresting officers that the latter were forced to defend themselves and returned fire.

Authorities recovered from the scene a Colt M16 5.56mm, a caliber .45 pistol, ammunition and magazines, several fired cartridge cases, and sachets of suspected shabu worth more than P1 million.

PRO-10 Director, Brigadier General Christopher Abrahano, said the operation highlights the police’s commitment to dismantling criminal networks and curbing the proliferation of illegal drugs and firearms linked to violence.

“We will continue to pursue wanted persons and criminal groups through lawful and intelligence-driven operations. Our priority remains the safety of our communities, while ensuring that every police action is conducted professionally and in accordance with the law,” Abrahano said.