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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Over 6,000 people evacuated in Sulu town as PNP steps up manhunt vs ex-vice mayor

Over 6,000 people evacuated in Sulu town as PNP steps up manhunt vs ex-vice mayor

Published Jun 26, 2023 04:38 am
The Philippine National Police (PNP), backed by local military forces, have launched a manhunt against the former mayor of Maimbung town in Sulu following the fierce gun battle on Saturday, June 24, that left two people dead and at least 13 others wounded. PNP chief information officer Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan said the pursuit operations are being conducted in areas where Pando Mudjasan and his men would seek refuge after their escape during the Saturday operation. Mudjasan is the subject of several arrest warrants, as well as search warrants for illegal possession of firearms and explosive materials—the reason why the operation was carried out on Saturday. “Currently, our troops in the area, along with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), have been conducting operations to get him,” said Maranan. One of those who died in the operation was a member of the Special Action Force and the 13 reported injured were all from the government troops. Maranan explained that the area where the warrants were supposed to be served on Saturday is heavily-fortified. Mudjasan was a former commander of the Moro National Liberation Front before he became vice mayor of Maimbung town.   Evacuation Maranan said the Saturday operation, along with the ongoing pursuit, have resulted in around 6,000 people being evacuated from their homes. “They were evacuated to ensure their safety. Right now, they are being prevented from returning,” said Maranan. The reason, according to Maranan, is to prevent them from being caught in the crossfire as he said Mudjasan has several armed followers. Police earlier said that Mudjasan is leading an armed group which could be tapped to influence the results of the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections in October this year in Miambung and other areas.

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