Former barangay chairman killed in law enforcement operation in Lanao del Norte

April 4, 2019

A former barangay chairman was killed, three were arrested and a soldier was wounded in a law enforcement operation in Lanao del Norte on Wednesday.

Capt. Clint Antipala, spokesman of the 1st Infantry Division, identified the fatality as Samolabao Tumog, a former barangay chairman of Rebucon, Nunungan, Lanao del Norte.

He said arrested suspects were identified as, Jalal Diambarang Tumog, Pano Tumog and Hami Tumog.

Antipala said the military and police were serving a search warrant at the vicinity of Brgy Abaga, Nunungan, Lanao del Norte at 4 am.

“Government troops were about to serve the search warrant when Samolabao Tumog warned them not to enter his house and immediately fired his M-16 rifle that resulted into the wounding of one Army personnel,” he said.

“Wounded trooper was immediately evacuated and brought to the nearest hospital for medical treatment,” he added.

Antipala said the arrested drug suspects are now under police custody for filing of appropriate charges.

“Troops also recovered one M16 rifle, two rifle grenades, one hand grenade, magazines and ammunition,” he said.

Brig. Gen. Ezra James Enriquez, comamnder of the 2nd Mechanized Brigade, who has operational jurisdiction over Lanao del Norte province said the neutralization of the drug personalities will significantly reduce crimes. Robina Asido/DMS