6 slain in Cotabato ‘shootout’

COTABATO CITY, Philippines — Six people, including five suspected bandits and a police commando, were killed in an alleged encounter in Aleosan, Cotabato on Tuesday.

Cpl. Jed Michael Gregorio of the police Special Action Force (SAF) died from multiple gunshot wounds, according to reports received by Brig. Gen. Percival Augustus Placer, Soccsksargen police director.

Three other SAF men were wounded in the encounter that broke out during a raid against unlicensed firearms and illegal drugs in Barangay New Panay.

Reports said the lawmen were on their way to serve a search warrant on alleged bandit group leader Macabuat Dimnog Salik when they were met by gunfire.

The lawmen retaliated, triggering a firefight that resulted in the death of Salik and his four followers.

Authorities said Salik had been under surveillance for alleged involvement in cattle theft, armed robbery and drug trafficking.

Placer said civilian informants and local officials helped the operatives locate the hideout of Salik.