Government security forces achieved another milestone in their drive against loose firearms and extremist threats in North Cotabato following the voluntary surrender of a reported Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters–Bungos Faction (BIFF-BF) member on August 25.
The operative, identified only by the alias “Dats,” turned himself in during a coordinated police operation at the Cotabato Police Provincial Office compound in Kidapawan City. He was immediately taken into custody by the PNP Intelligence Group for documentation and debriefing.
Along with his surrender, authorities recovered a rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) launcher and an RPG anti-tank cartridge, which were turned over to explosive ordnance personnel for inspection and safe disposal.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. commended the operation, emphasizing that law enforcement will continue to blend intelligence operations with community engagement to neutralize local threats.
“We take every surrender seriously because it can mean one less armed threat in our communities,” Nartatez said. “At the same time, we will continue our intelligence operations against those who choose to keep weapons for unlawful purposes. Ang direksyon natin ay malinaw: protect the people and help keep our communities peaceful.”
The joint operation involved elements from the PNP Intelligence Group, Police Regional Office 12, Cotabato Police Provincial Office and regional intelligence units.