Intensified security in Maguindanao amid deadly gun attacks

Security has been intensified in Maguindanao del Sur and Maguindanao del Norte following a series of deadly gun attacks in both provinces, despite the ongoing election-related gun ban.

The Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO-BAR), in coordination with the Army's 6th Infantry Division and local government units, is bolstering enforcement of the gun ban.

The nationwide Commission on Elections (Comelec) gun ban, which prohibits the unauthorized carrying of firearms outside residences, began on January 12 and is intended to ensure peaceful elections.

Since January 12, Maguindanao del Sur has experienced multiple gun attacks resulting in ten fatalities, while Maguindanao del Norte has recorded five such incidents.

Increased security measures are particularly evident in Datu Odin Sinsuat town in Maguindanao del Norte, with police securing key areas such as Barangay Awang, home to Cotabato Airport, and Barangay Tamontaka.