THREE “lawless elements” were killed and another was captured after a firefight with soldiers and policemen in Polomolok, South Cotabato last Tuesday, the military reported yesterday.
In a statement last Wednesday night, the AFP Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) said the encounter stemmed from a report from two residents of Purok Salol, Barangay Palkan in Polomok.
The two reported to the PNP the presence of armed men in their farm, prompting the deployment of soldiers and policemen.
Westmincom acting spokesman Maj. Orlando Ayllon said at least eight armed men opened fire at the troops.
Ayllon said troops returned fire, sparking a firefight that lasted for one hour and 20 minutes.
“The firefight resulted in the deaths of three ALG members, (and the) apprehension of another,” said Ayllon.
He said the encounter also resulted in the seizure of two Carbine rifles, a cal. 45 pistol, and assorted magazines and ammunition.
Westmincom commander Lt. Gen. William Gonzales commended the soldiers and the policemen for the successful operation and for preventing the armed men from harming the civilians.