Shariff Aguak Mayor Akmad Ampatuan Survives Ambush; Three Suspects Killed in Hot Pursuit

One of the three suspects caught on CCTV launches a rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) that hits the rear tire of a black SUV carrying Mayor Akmad Ampatuan.

Shariff Aguak Mayor Akmad Ampatuan Survives Ambush; Three Suspects Killed in Hot Pursuit

By Wilma N. Yamzon – TheNATIONWEEK.com | January 26, 2026

SHARIFF AGUAK, MAGUINDANAO DEL SUR, Philippines – Mayor Akmad Ampatuan of Shariff Aguak narrowly escaped an ambush on Sunday, January 25, 2026, an attack captured on CCTV footage that triggered a swift and deadly response from law enforcement. Three suspected assailants were killed in a subsequent hot pursuit operation.

The ambush, which occurred Sunday morning, targeted Mayor Ampatuan’s convoy. CCTV footage obtained by Vice Mayor Hadji Oping Ampatuan, now a critical piece of evidence, depicts three individuals wielding high-powered firearms and launching rocket-propelled grenades during the attack.

Police Captain Steffi Salanguit, spokesperson for the Police Regional Office – Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO BAR), confirmed the incident and the ensuing operation. According to Capt. Salanguit, the three unidentified suspects were fatally wounded in Datu Unsay, Maguindanao del Sur, during the immediate pursuit.

“Following the ambush on Mayor Ampatuan’s convoy, a hot pursuit operation was immediately initiated, resulting in an armed confrontation with the suspects,” Capt. Salanguit stated. “Tragically, the suspects sustained fatal injuries during the exchange of gunfire.”

While Mayor Ampatuan and members of his security detail sustained gunshot wounds to the left abdomen, authorities report that they are in stable condition and are receiving medical treatment.

“Mayor Ampatuan and his staff are currently receiving medical treatment and are in stable condition,” Capt. Salanguit confirmed.

The investigation is now focused on identifying the deceased suspects, determining their affiliations, and uncovering the motive behind the brazen attack. Authorities are exploring all possible leads, including potential political rivalries and organized criminal activity.

Key Investigative Highlights:

Targeted Ambush Raises Political Concerns:

• The deliberate targeting of Mayor Akmad Ampatuan’s convoy on January 25, 2026, has heightened concerns about political tensions and potential instability within the region. The attack underscores the volatile security environment and the potential for politically motivated violence.

CCTV Footage Provides Crucial Evidence:

• The availability of CCTV footage documenting the ambush offers investigators a valuable resource for identifying suspects and reconstructing the sequence of events. This visual evidence is expected to play a significant role in the ongoing investigation.

Fatal Encounter Raises Questions About Suspects’ Identities and Affiliations:

• The deaths of the three unidentified suspects during the hot pursuit operation raise critical questions about their identities, affiliations, and the extent of the conspiracy. Investigators are working to determine whether the individuals acted independently or were part of a larger organized group.

Mayor’s Stable Condition Allows for Firsthand Testimony:

• Despite sustaining gunshot wounds, Mayor Ampatuan’s stable condition provides investigators with the opportunity to gather firsthand accounts of the attack. His testimony, along with that of his security personnel, is expected to provide valuable insights into the events leading up to the ambush and the identities of the perpetrators.

Motive Remains Under Intense Scrutiny:

• Authorities are actively pursuing all leads to determine the motive behind the ambush. The investigation is considering a range of possibilities, including political rivalries, organized criminal activity, and personal vendettas. The investigation remains a high priority, with authorities committed to bringing those responsible to justice.