DAVAO CITY - The Chief Minister of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) condemned the attack against two municipal mayors of the province of Basilan on Monday (Dec. 6).
"We appeal to the security sector, the Philippine National Police and Armed Forces of the Philippines, to conduct a thorough investigation on this matter and to ensure the safety of all our people," said BARMM Chief Minister Ahod B. Ebrahim in a statement.
Akbar mayor Alih Awal Sali and Al-Barka mayor Darussalam Saguindilan Lajid were shot by four suspects who were on motorcycles in Seaside, Brgy. Baliwasan, Zamboanga City at 8:31
am Monday (Dec. 6).
Lajid and his driver and security, Barad Nuruddin, died while Sali was wounded.
"Not only is this an attack against the people of Basilan, but an attack on the democratic principles and values of the entire Bangsamoro people," Ebrahim added.
"To the family of Mayor Sali, we are praying for his speedy recovery. To the family of Mayor Lajid and Mr. Nuruddin, we extend our deepest and sincerest condolences. Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raj’un," he said.
Ebrahim also called for "sobriety and patience."
"Let us exercise restraint while the investigation is ongoing. These perpetrators shall answer to justice, In shaa Allah," he added.
Meanwhile, Basilan Governor Jim Salliman also condemned the attack. In a statement, Salliman said he hopes that a special investigating team "will be created to focus on the immediate solution of the case."