THE Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday, March 30, intensified security measures in Maguindanao del Sur following an ambush in Shariff Aguak town that left five policemen dead and three others wounded.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the internal protocols for field operations were placed under strict review to prevent similar tactical lapses in the future.
“We are reinforcing our presence in Maguindanao del Sur until we hold all those involved accountable,” he said.
Additional rapid response teams have been deployed to prevent similar incidents, while random checkpoints and unpredictable patrol routes are being implemented to deter further attacks.
“We remind all our officers to stay alert and follow strict safety protocols as we conduct operations in the pursuit of justice for our fallen officers. Every patrol must be treated as a high-risk operation,” Nartatez added.
Five policemen were killed and three others were injured in an ambush in Barangay Mother Poblacion, Shariff Aguak on the evening of March 28.
The fallen officers, who belonged to the 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company, were returning to their camp from nighttime duty when they were waylaid along a highway near Camp Akilan.
Nartatez said the attack will not affect the PNP’s resolve to maintain peace and order and help pave the way for development in Maguindanao del Sur and nearby areas.
He said the incident only encouraged the police officers to do more in terms of peace and development, as well as the rule of law in the province.
Meanwhile, manhunt operations were ongoing against the ambushers.
“We urge everyone to cooperate with the police. We need your eyes and ears,” the PNP chief said.
