NATION
PNP joins military manhunt on Basilan ambush
‘Every attack against our security forces is a challenge to the peace and order we are sworn to protect.’
Police and military forces launched joint manhunt operations Tuesday across Basilan following an ambush on an army convoy that wounded at least 10 soldiers, law enforcement officials said.
Unidentified gunmen attacked the military vehicles early Monday morning as the convoy traversed a road in Barangay Badja in the town of Tipo-Tipo.
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said tactical units have been mobilized in Basilan and neighboring provinces to assist the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in tracking down the attackers.
“Every attack against our security forces is a challenge to the peace and order we are sworn to protect,” Nartatez said in a statement.
“The PNP will stand with the AFP in pursuing those responsible, strengthening our security posture, and ensuring that justice is served,” he added.
An initial military investigation indicates the ambush was likely executed as a retaliatory strike by an armed faction following intensified counter-insurgency operations in the province in recent months.
The 10 wounded personnel were evacuated to a regional military hospital for medical treatment, officials said. Their conditions have not been released.
Nartatez said the joint security response follows directives from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla to step up inter-agency coordination in high-risk zones.
Police checkpoints and intelligence units throughout Basilan have been placed on heightened alert to prevent follow-up attacks and monitor potential escape routes used by the suspects.