PNP recovers burnt-out military vehicle

ISABELA CITY, Basilan —Police authorities have recovered a burnt-out KM 450 military vehicle that was set on fire during an encounter between soldiers and suspected Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) members in Sumisip, Basilan.

The attack, which occurred on 22 January, resulted in the deaths of two soldiers and injuries to 12 others.

Basilan Provincial Police Director Col. Cerrazid Umabong confirmed that the 32nd Infantry Battalion’s military vehicle was found in Lower Cabengbeng, Sumisip, Basilan, on Tuesday, with assistance from the Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities, Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) and military personnel.

SOCO’s forensic analysis revealed 24 entry bullet holes and 12 exit bullet holes on the vehicle, information crucial for filing legal charges against the perpetrators.

Umabong described the KM 450 military vehicle as “totally destroyed and beyond economical repair,” with its sidings and plate number missing.

He also confirmed that the case folder is ready for the filing of multiple charges, including murder, frustrated murder, homicide, arson and gun ban violations.

“Probably by next week, we can already file the charges at the local fiscal office based on witness affidavits,” Umabong stated. “We are still carefully conducting the investigation to ensure accuracy and fairness.”