The Philippine National Police (PNP) is investigating politics and revenge as possible motives in the ambush of Shariff Aguak Mayor Adatu Akmad Mitra Ampatuan Sr. in Maguindanao del Sur, where four suspects attacked his convoy, leaving two of his security escorts wounded. Three of the suspects were killed in a shootout with authorities.

MANILA — January 27, 2026 — The PNP confirmed that a Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) has been formed to probe the ambush that targeted Mayor Ampatuan early Sunday morning in Barangay Poblacion, Shariff Aguak. The mayor was traveling in his armored vehicle when assailants opened fire and launched a rocket-propelled grenade, injuring two of his escorts.

PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño said investigators are focusing on two angles. “Ang una pong anggulo na tinignan po natin yung local tension po o hidwaan kaugnay ng lokal na politika na nag-resulta po sa pagha-hire ng mga gun for hire sa locality,” he explained, noting that political rivalries may have led to the hiring of contract killers. He added that another possible motive is retaliation linked to the killing of a relative of the suspects.

Authorities reported that three of the four attackers were killed during a follow-up operation, while one remains at large. The getaway vehicle used in the ambush has been recovered by the Police Regional Office–Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, providing investigators with additional leads.

The attack marked the fourth attempt on Mayor Ampatuan’s life, underscoring the volatile political climate in Maguindanao del Sur. Photos released by local officials showed the mayor’s black vehicle riddled with bullet holes, highlighting the intensity of the assault.

The PNP assured the public that the SITG is working to establish accountability and prevent further violence. Local leaders have condemned the ambush, calling for unity and vigilance amid ongoing political tensions in the province.

This incident adds to the string of politically motivated attacks in Mindanao, where clan rivalries and revenge killings have historically fueled violence. Authorities are urging residents to cooperate with the investigation as they continue to track down the remaining suspect and determine the full scope of the plot.