Maguindanao Sur bomb squad detonates improvised rocket

Authorities neutralized a potentially dangerous improvised rocket grenade discovered Tuesday in Barangay Mileb, the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported Thursday.

Residents discovered the unarmed projectile around 12:50 p.m., prompting the Rajah Buayan Municipal Police Station to call for specialized assistance from the Maguindanao del Sur Provincial Explosive and Canine Unit.

By 1:20 p.m., police units and the Philippine Army’s 34th Infantry Battalion secured the perimeter.

Following a technical inspection, the Explosive Ordnance Disposal team conducted a “Bomb in Place” procedure, successfully detonating the grenade at 2:20 p.m.

Authorities declared the area safe 10 minutes later, confirming there was no remaining threat to the public.

“The prompt response of our police personnel prevented a dangerous incident from escalating,” PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said. “Our focus is always to protect lives and property.”

Nartatez credited the success of the operation to the PNP’s focused agenda on managing police operations and active community support.

He stressed that the cooperation of local residents was vital in ensuring a proactive response.

“This operation shows that when police units act with determination and care, the safety of our citizens is never compromised,” Nartatez added.