Four family members killed in ambush in Matalam, Cotabato

MATALAM, Cotabato — Authorities have identified the four victims killed in a shooting incident involving members of the same family in Purok 6, Sitio New Esrael, Barangay New Abra, Matalam, on the evening of Thursday, 29 January. One other victim survived the attack but remains in critical condition at a hospital.

Police identified the fatalities as Rashid Sahay Mampo, 19; Rica Jane Maidlos, 18; Daryl Mampo Diansay, 16; and Russel Kim Mampo Diansay, 11. The fifth victim, identified only by the alias Ebrahim, sustained severe gunshot wounds and is fighting for his life.

According to local police, the surviving minor was hit by a bullet that entered the abdomen and exited through the buttocks, causing life-threatening injuries.

Initial findings by the Matalam Municipal Police Station showed the incident occurred at around 6 p.m. while the victims were riding a black Rusi motorcycle. The group was reportedly heading home after visiting a nearby resident to access a Wi-Fi connection when they were ambushed along a dark and isolated stretch of road.

Investigators said the unidentified assailants opened fire as the victims reached the area before fleeing toward Sitio Malupayag within the same barangay.

Police arrived at the scene at about 7:15 p.m. after receiving the report. Four of the victims were declared dead at the scene.

Authorities are still determining the motive behind the attack, including whether it stemmed from personal animosity or a possible land dispute. In media interviews, relatives said the family had lived in Barangay New Abra for just over a month after relocating from Davao City.

Several spent shell casings were recovered at the crime scene and will undergo ballistic examination to identify the firearm used. Police said more details are expected once statements are taken from the victims’ relatives and the lone survivor.

Barangay New Abra officials have appealed to residents to cooperate with authorities by providing any information that could help identify and arrest the suspects. The municipality of Matalam remains on heightened alert as police continue a manhunt to prevent further violence.