3 killed in Zambo encounter

MANILA, Philippines — Three armed followers of a political clan were killed in an encounter against the police late Friday afternoon in Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur, according to security officials.

The encounter lasted more than an hour, leaving PO2 Hazel Manuel and 2 suspects wounded while another was captured.

Lt. Col. Audie Mongao, spokesman of army’s 1st Division, said the armed followers of the late Mayor Okol Talumpa tried to attack the house of Roberto Ambona, a retired army ranger from the army service in Barangay Tulawas.

Police said Ambona was the subject in the shooting and killing of Lible Talumpa, nephew of the late mayor in Labangan town last Thursday night, for reportedly impregnating the latter’s daughter.

Ambona escaped and surrendered to Labangan vice mayor.

Police Superintendent Glenn Macario Dulawan, Pagadian police chief, said police forces were immediately deployed after intelligence tipped of the presence of the followers of Talumpa on board a service pick-up truck and motorcycle that tried to attack Ambona’s house to avenge the killing of Talumpa.

Fighting sparked about 5:20 p.m. Friday that left 3 of the suspects killed and 2 others wounded. The fatalities were identified as Samrani Talumpa Liwas alias "Badi," 24; Kusi Ampatu Guimba, 54 and Arham Palte Salindat, who reportedly expired while undergoing treatment.

The two other wounded suspects were Nhoc Navales Talumpa, 20 and his brother Amerudin, 18 while the arrested suspect was Mohammad Guilly Paluwa, 27. All of the suspects were natives of Labangan town.

Police also recovered 3 units of caliber .45 pistols, a pick-up truck, and 3 motorcycle units used by the suspects.

Dulawan said the security has been tightened in Pagadian and Labangan towns to avert escalation of the conflict.