THREE people, including a police official, were killed in a shootout during a law enforcement operation in the province of Zamboanga del Sur, the police said Sunday, August 23, 2026.
The slain police officer was identified as Police Major Aiman Khuzaiman Pantaran, 35, the intelligence officer of Pagadian City Police Station.
The Pagadian City Police Station identified the other two fatalities as Jhonny Bravo Gomez, and Jerry Bravo Gomez, who are alleged gunrunners.
The police said the shootout happened during a buy-bust operation around 12:15 a.m. Sunday, August 23, in Purok Malipayon, Dao village, Pagadian City, the capital of Zamboanga del Sur province.
Investigation disclosed the shootout ensued when the suspects suddenly opened fire when they sensed that they are dealing with policemen during the transaction for the sale of firearms.
The police said Pantaran was wounded and was rushed to the hospital for medical treatment. Despite the medical intervention, the attending physician declared Pantaran dead around 12:50 a.m.
The two suspects were declared dead at the shootout site, the police said.
“The confiscated items recovered from the suspects will be forwarded upon receipt of the results of the crime scene processing conducted by the SOCO (Scene of Crime Operative) personnel,” the Pagadian City Police Statio said in a statement.
Meanwhile, Police Colonel Bonifacio Arañas, Zamboanga del Sur police director, said they deeply mourn the loss Pantaran who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty while performing a lawful police operation against the illegal possession and sale of loose firearms.
“His life was a testament to selfless service. His courage, dedication, and commitment to duty will forever be remembered and honored,” Arañas said in a statement.
He said they remain steadfast in their commitment to ensuring that all police operations are conducted professionally, lawfully, and with utmost regard human rights and due process. (SunStar Zamboanga)