Seven people were confirmed dead following an encounter between military forces and a group led by Captain Tamano Argasi, Commander Paradise, and Commander Macmod in Barangay Tagudtungan, Bongo Island, Parang, Maguindanao del Norte.
According to Police Regional Office Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO BAR), the Marine Battalion Landing Team 2 and 65th Force Reconnaissance Company conducted a Maritime Security Patrol (MarSecPat) in coordination with the PNP PRO BAR after receiving reports of armed men in the area.
The Philippine Marines, aboard a Small Unit Riverine Craft (SURC), arrived in Barangay Tagudtungan when they were fired upon by suspected members of Commander Paradise’s group.
The Marines responded, leading to an intense exchange of gunfire.
The armed group was reported to be on twelve motorized boats during the clash with authorities.
According to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), seven members of the armed group were killed, with three bodies recovered and four others believed to have fallen into the sea.
The military also recovered various weapons and spent ammunition from the armed men.
PRO-BAR Regional Director PBGEN Romeo Macapaz confirmed that four bodies were recovered, with identities still being verified.
One Philippine Marine was wounded and is currently recovering in the hospital.
Authorities continue their investigation and search for members of the group who managed to escape.