Heightened Security in Maguindanao Town After Fatal Attacks
Security in Maguindanao town has been significantly heightened following the tragic killing of two individuals in separate gun attacks on Monday night, August 18, 2025. Local authorities have ramped up police patrols and established numerous checkpoints to prevent further violence and ensure public safety.
“Police investigators are still working to determine the motives and identities of the attackers involved in the two incidents, but initial information gathered indicated the attacks were related to illegal drugs,” Lt. Col. Esmael Madin, the municipal police chief, said in an interview. This early assessment guides ongoing investigations as the community reels from the sudden violence.
First Incident: Shooting in Barangay Poblacion Dalican
In the first attack, 33-year-old Bai Rania Guerra, a resident of Cotabato City, was fatally shot around 3 p.m. while walking along a sidewalk in Barangay Poblacion Dalican. Two men on a motorcycle fired multiple shots, killing her instantly. After the attack, the assailants fled the scene in an unknown direction.
Second Incident: Farmer Killed in Barangay Tamontaka
The second shooting occurred at about 8 p.m. in Barangay Tamontaka. Rasid Salinogan, a 25-year-old farmer and local resident, was targeted by unidentified gunmen. According to police reports, Salinogan and a companion were riding a motorcycle home when they were chased and fired upon by gunmen on separate motorcycles.
Salinogan was declared dead upon arrival at the hospital, while his companion escaped unharmed. “Police tracking teams have been formed to apprehend those responsible for the twin attacks,” officials confirmed, emphasizing the urgency of the investigation.
Community Response and Ongoing Investigation
The twin killings have rattled the community, prompting calls for increased vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement. Authorities continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses in hopes of swiftly resolving the case. The connection to illegal drugs remains the leading theory behind the attacks.
Local leaders have urged residents to report any suspicious activity to help prevent further incidents. The intensified security measures aim to restore peace and deter future violence in Maguindanao town.
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