Four persons were killed in a gun attack in a remote barangay in Hadji Mohammad Adjul, Basilan on the eve of the midterm elections on Sunday, May 11, the military’s Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) said.

Col. J-jay Javines, Westmincom spokesperson, said the armed attack occurred near a primary school in Barangay Langil around 9 a.m.

Killed were Addahang “Marlboro” Abdulla, 45, and Hajarani Maha, 63, both barangay watchmen; and suspects Jul-Asbi “Imbo” Misuari, 44, and Jun Awang, 39.

According to a report reaching Camp Aguinaldo, Abdulla and Maha were inspecting and installing a perimeter fence at a primary school hosting a voting precinct for the elections when they were suddenly fired upon by a group of armed men holed inside a nearby house.

The village chairwoman, Amna Pawaki, who was leading the inspection, rushed to the site along with her security aides. An exchange of gunfire followed which led to the death of the two suspects.

Javines said the 101st Infantry Brigade has beefed up the security in Barangay Langil as well as the municipal hall of Hadji Mohammad Adjul town to secure the residents, especially on election day.

A clearing and hot pursuit operation was also held to hunt down the escaped gunmen.

“This morning (May 12), the voting precincts will open and elections will continue in Barangay Langil,” Javines said.

Tension in the area has already subsided, the military official noted.

“We are encouraging the public to go out, vote, and choose an honest and competent leader that will bring them peace and progress,” Javines noted.

He assured that the military will ensure the security in Barangay Langil even after the elections.

He also urged the public to report to Westmincom through hotlines 0917-504-4298 and 0977-076-6870 any information that would help in the arrest of the suspects.