Photo credit to Ely Dumaboc
3 Killed, 3 Injured After Gunfight Erupts During Fugitive Operation in Sinunuc
Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay, April 23, 2026- A law enforcement operation before dawn turned deadly Thursday after a shootout broke out in Alas-as Drive, Barangay Sinunuc, leaving three people dead and three others injured, including a youth council official. The joint operation, launched at around 1:00 a.m., aimed to arrest Saddam Siddik, a fugitive facing multiple murder charges in Basilan. However, the attempt to serve the warrant escalated into a firefight.
Authorities said the operation involved a coordinated effort among the Regional Intelligence Division 9, the Army’s 9th Intelligence Service Unit, and the Joint Special Operations Group, with support from the Zamboanga City Police Station 8.
According to police reports, operatives were about to serve warrants issued by courts in Isabela City, Basilan when gunfire allegedly erupted from inside the target location. Despite identifying themselves, officers were reportedly met with armed resistance from two unidentified individuals within the house, prompting them to return fire.
The exchange, though brief, resulted in the deaths of three male residents: Jerry Indan Alfad, 52; Rayyan Hassan Alfad, 22; and Salam Aradais Alfad, 12.
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Three others were wounded in the incident: Mislie Aradais Alfad, 18; Sayra Alfad, 40; and Saralyn Alfad, 23, an elected SK Kagawad. All injured individuals were immediately transported to the Zamboanga City Medical Center for treatment.
Despite the heavy presence of police and military forces, the primary target, Saddam Siddik, was not found at the scene and remains at large.
Scene of the Crime Operatives recovered an M16 rifle, a fragmentation grenade, and several spent 5.56mm cartridges from the area following the incident.
Authorities said the entire operation was documented using body-worn cameras and alternative recording devices in compliance with Supreme Court protocols.
Other individuals found at the scene were taken into custody for identification and questioning. Meanwhile, personnel involved in the operation have been directed to undergo paraffin testing and submit their firearms for ballistic examination.
The PNP’s Internal Affairs Service has initiated an independent investigation to determine whether proper procedures were followed during the operation.
