Balabagan’s most wanted killed, 4 others arrested in Lanao Sur joint ops

PAGADIAN CITY (Feb. 19, 2021) – The combined operation of military and police neutralized the most wanted person in Balabagan, Lanao del Sur on Thursday at around 2:30 a.m. of February 18, 2021.

According to WestMinCom Commander Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Jr., the combined elements of the Marine Battalion Landing Team-5, PNP Special Action Force, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 14, Balabagan Municipal Police Station, and the AFP and PNP Intelligence Units conducted a law enforcement operation in Barangay Barorao, Balabagan, Lanao del Sur

The said operation resulted in the neutralization of five lawless elements in the municipality.

“Sarao Mangadang, Balabagan’s most wanted person was slain after resisting arrest by government forces while four of his cohorts were captured by the operating troops,” said Lt. Gen. Vinluan, Jr.

Mangadang was known for numerous killings, drug trafficking, and robbery.

MBLT-5 Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Tino Maslan said, “The government forces were serving the arrest warrant on Mangadang, who evaded arrest and initiated a gunfight, prompting the troops to return fire.”

“The armed confrontation resulted in the wounding of Mangadang and the apprehension of his comrades. Mangadang was immediately rushed to Dr. Serapio Montañer Hospital, but was declared dead on arrival by the attending physician,” Lt. Col. Maslan added.

Arrested during the operation were a certain Akrudin Mangadang and three unidentified malefactors.

“Your marine troops are always ready to support other security agencies in the conduct of law enforcement operations to ensure the safety and security of the people,” said Brig. Gen. Jonas Lumawag, Commander of the 1st Marine Brigade.

While scouring the clash site, troops recovered one M16 and one M14 rifles; and one bandolier.

“I congratulate the troops of the MBLT-5, our partners from the PNP, as well as our intelligence operatives for the successful operation. This only manifests that your security forces are working hard to bring the lawless elements to justice,” said Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, Commander of the Joint Task Force Central.

The arrested personalities and recovered firearms were turned over to the Police Regional Office Bar in Parang, Maguindanao for the filing of charges and proper disposition.

“Your Western Mindanao Command family ensures that we will sustain our intensified collaboration and cooperation with the police and other security agencies to reach our common goal that is to bring peace and order in the communities,” Lt. Gen. Vinluan, Jr. stated. (By JONG CADION with reports and photos from WestMinCom-PIO)

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