ONE of the two wanted persons being sought by authorities was killed in a shootout in Basilan province, the police authorities reported Monday, September 25, 2023.

The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG)-Basilan Provincial Field Unit reported the shootout happened around 1:20 p.m. Sunday, September 24, in Parangbasak village, Lamitan City, Basilan.

The CIDG identified the slain wanted person as Cantino Mayarin Hamsalin, who is facing charges for the crime of murder and multiple frustrated murder.

The CIDG said the shootout broke out after Hamsalin opened fire upon sensing the arrival of the lawmen who were about to serve arrest warrants against him and his cousin, Jawari Ladjain Hamsalin, 69.

The joint police and military team returned fire hitting Cantino, who was rushed to the hospital but was declared dead on arrival by the attending physician.

The CIDG said Jawari was arrested and recovered from the shoutout site were a caliber .45 pistol with five live ammunition.

Like Cantino, his cousin, Jawari, is also facing charges for murder and multiple frustrated murder.

The warrants of arrest against the two cousins were issued by a court in Isabela City, the capital of Basilan. No bail was recommended for their temporary liberty.(SunStar Zamboanga)