Authorities are intensifying efforts to apprehend Datu Unsay Mayor Datu Andal 'Xyril' Ampatuan V and 11 associates after an Iligan City court issued no-bail arrest warrants. These warrants stem from a violent January 25 rocket-propelled grenade ambush targeting Shariff Aguak Mayor Datu Akmad 'Mitra' Ampatuan Sr.
Court Issues No-Bail Warrants Amid Political Violence
The court found probable cause to formally indict the town executive and his co-respondents.
Judge Alberto Pantonial Quinto, RTC 10th Judicial Region
- Datu Andal 'Xyril' Ampatuan V (Mayor)
- Edad 'Haider' Pendatun (Municipal Councilor)
- Aboher Guimbangan (Municipal Councilor)
- Mohamad Shamron Sapalon Uday (Municipal Councilor)
- Ababang 'Babang' Salik (Municipal Councilor)
- Toraipie Lusod (Municipal Councilor)
- Gapor Magaluyan (Municipal Councilor)
- Samsudin Mokamad (Barangay Captain)
- Saudi Guiapal (Barangay Captain)
- Johari Guiapal (Barangay Captain)
- Soy Kali (Barangay Captain)
- Datuben Gayon Alib Dimau (Barangay Captain)
Charges against the group include four counts of frustrated murder, attempted murder, and violations of Republic Act (RA) 9516 concerning illegal possession and use of explosives. They also face indictments under RA 11479, the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020.
The ambush occurred around 6:00 a.m. on January 25 along a national highway in Barangay Poblacion, Shariff Aguak. CCTV footage captured gunmen firing an RPG at Mayor Ampatuan’s armored vehicle, which was subsequently hit by gunfire.
Despite the attack, Mayor Mitra survived unhurt, with two of his security escorts sustaining injuries. The formal complaint was jointly filed by Mayor Mitra and members of his security detail.
Mayor Xyril Ampatuan is notably the son of former Datu Unsay Mayor Andal Ampatuan Jr., who was convicted in the infamous 2009 Maguindanao massacre. This historical context adds layers to the ongoing political tensions in the region.
In response to the warrants, police and military forces in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region are actively conducting search operations. Local leaders have heightened security measures and are urging residents to remain calm.