NINE people were killed and died on the spot when unidentified armed men staged an ambush on a convoy of maroon and black pick-up trucks in Guindulungan, Maguindanao on Saturday morning.
The news was confirmed by Guindulungan Mayor Midpantao Midtimbang Jr.
Initial reports said a Kumander Pags Mamasainged alias “Black Magic” was allegedly the target of the ambush.
Responding police counted nine dead bodies inside and outside a maroon Mitsubishi Montero with plate number RNW-889, and Black Ford Ranger with plate number LAC-6907.
Police scene-of-the-crime operatives are still in the area conducting post-crime investigation.
Midtimbang said the identities of the victims are still being determined.
The ambush site is about 10 kilometers away from the national highway linking Cotabato City and Isulan, Sultan Kudarat.
Maguindanao Police spokesperson Police Lieutenant Fayeed Cana said Mamasainged’s group aboard three SUVs was on the way to Barangay Kitapok in Datu Saudi Ampatuan for a “rido” settlement with the family of a Jordan Mamalintang when the incident occurred in Barangay Kalumamis.
The Philippine National Police is conducting an investigation to determine the identity of the persons behind the incident and their motive.
