Maguindanao del Sur —Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters Sub-Commander, identified as "Kumander Bayawak," 65 years old, was apprehended by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group Regional Field Unit Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (CIDG RFU BAR) in Barangay Poblacion, Datu Piang, Maguindanao del Sur, around 2:00 this afternoon.
He was arrested after Warrants Of Arrest were served against him for Multiple Attempted Murder under Case Number 2021-12650 with a recommended bail bond of PHP 120,000.00. He also faces charges for Destructive Arson under Case Number 2021-12651 and violation of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 under Case Number 2021-12653, all issued by the 12th Judicial Region, Branch 13, Cotabato City on October 4, 2021.
"Kumander Bayawak" is also facing charges of Murder with Double Frustrated Murder with no recommended bail by the court.
During the operation, authorities recovered in his possession a caliber 45 with serial number AOC5038 and a magazine.
CIDG RFU BAR disclosed that "Kumander Bayawak" was part of the group of BIFF members who attacked Datu Piang Police personnel while patrolling in Barangay Poblacion and torched their patrol vehicle.
He was also allegedly involved in the attack on the Charlie Company Detachment of the 6th Infantry Battalion under the 6th Infantry Division in Barangay Kanguan.
The group, according to CIDG's report, also fired several
rounds of different calibers at Santa Teresita Parish Church in Datu Piang on December 3, 2023.
CIDG RFU BAR also reported that Kumander Bayawak participated in the attack on soldiers on August 5, 2012, in Barangay Meta, Datu Unsay, resulting in the death of PFC Roger Warde and injured PFC Mejor Villanueva and Corporal Edison Medina. Commander Ameril Umbra Kato was allegedly with him during the attacks.
Authorities are also coordinating with other PNP units regarding the arrest warrants related to three (3) more incidents involving an individual identified as "Kumander Bayawak." These incidents include clashes with the military in Maguindanao del Sur on February 25, 2015, and March 23, 2015, as well as the attack on the Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team detachment in Barangay Malagakit, Pigkawayan, North Cotabato, where civilians were also held hostage on June 22, 2017.
Apart from being the Top 3 Most Wanted at the Regional Level in the E-Warrant system, "Kumander Bayawak" is the No. 1 Most Wanted by Maguindanao Del Sur PPO and the No. 7 Most Wanted by Datu Piang Municipal Police Station.
"Kumander Bayawak" was immediately taken to the Maguindanao PFU office for documentation and further legal procedures. | Reports from Teddy Borja
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