Police neutralize three motorcycle thieves in Cotabato shootout

DAVAO CITY — Three motorcycle thieves were shot dead by police during a shootout in Midsayap, Cotabato, before dawn on Friday, March 28.

Municipal police officials, along with Midsayap Mayor Rolly Sacdalan, confirmed on Friday morning that two of the three fatalities had been identified as Arzad Calong and Talusan Dimatingcal, both residents of Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur. Army and police intelligence units in Maguindanao del Sur also confirmed that Calong and Dimatingcal were known motorcycle thieves.

The three suspects were riding a stolen motorcycle when they opened fire at police officers in Libungan, Cotabato, who attempted to stop them for a routine inspection related to the ongoing gun ban enforcement since January 12 by the Commission on Elections. The ban is part of measures to ensure a peaceful election in May 2025.

The suspects sped toward Barangay Sadaan in Midsayap, where a police team had set up a roadblock. When the suspects resisted arrest and drew firearms, the police responded with assault rifles, neutralizing them in the brief confrontation.

Sacdalan, who also serves as the chairperson of the Midsayap Municipal Peace and Order Council, stated that all three men died instantly from gunshot wounds. He also announced plans to recognize the police officers involved in the deadly encounter, offering them special citations for their gallantry in the line of duty.