NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
BARMM's Top Most Wanted Suspect Arrested In Maguindanao Raid
Photo credit: PTV
Authorities arrested the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao's (BARMM) top most wanted suspect during a joint law enforcement operation before dawn on Sunday, July 5.
The suspect, Esmael Abubakar, also known as "Kumander Bungos," is the alleged chairman of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters–Bungos Faction (BIFF-BF). He was apprehended in Sitio Tambak, Barangay Calsada, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao del Norte.
According to authorities, Abubakar was listed as the Top 1 Most Wanted Person in BARMM and in the province of Maguindanao del Sur. His arrest stemmed from multiple warrants issued against him for cases including murder, attempted murder, qualified direct assault, and destructive arson.
Police said the operation turned into an armed confrontation after the suspect allegedly opened fire on the arresting team while officers were serving the warrants.
Abubakar was subsequently taken to a hospital to receive medical treatment following the incident.
Authorities are continuing their investigation as they process evidence gathered from the scene.
The suspect, Esmael Abubakar, also known as "Kumander Bungos," is the alleged chairman of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters–Bungos Faction (BIFF-BF). He was apprehended in Sitio Tambak, Barangay Calsada, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao del Norte.
According to authorities, Abubakar was listed as the Top 1 Most Wanted Person in BARMM and in the province of Maguindanao del Sur. His arrest stemmed from multiple warrants issued against him for cases including murder, attempted murder, qualified direct assault, and destructive arson.
Police said the operation turned into an armed confrontation after the suspect allegedly opened fire on the arresting team while officers were serving the warrants.
Abubakar was subsequently taken to a hospital to receive medical treatment following the incident.
Authorities are continuing their investigation as they process evidence gathered from the scene.
Jul 6, 2026
We are dedicated storytellers with a passion for bringing your brand to life. Our services range from news and media features to brand promotion and collaborations.
Interested? Visit our
Contact Us page for more information. To learn more about what we offer, check out our latest article on services and opportunities.
