Police Officer and Suspect Killed in Violent Clash
A police officer and an alleged drug personality lost their lives during a fierce shootout that erupted in the early hours of Tuesday, November 25, 2025, in Basilan province. The violent encounter occurred during a buy-bust operation conducted by the Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit (PDEU) in Seronggon village, Hadji Mohammad Ajul.
Details of the Anti-Drug Operation
The operation was initially launched against Hamid Idarus, also known as Mids, and his group. According to police reports, the situation escalated rapidly around 4:10 a.m. when the suspects sensed the approaching law enforcement team. The suspects allegedly opened fire first, prompting the PDEU operatives to return fire in self-defense.
The exchange of gunfire resulted in the tragic death of Police Chief Master Sergeant Jilhem Elmen, a dedicated member of the PDEU. He was hit during the crossfire and was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment. Unfortunately, the attending physician later pronounced him dead.
Aftermath and Police Investigation
On the suspects' side, Immad Awwalun, identified as a cohort of Idarus, was also killed in the shootout. Another associate, Ridzmar Awwalun Muhammad, was successfully apprehended at the scene. However, the primary target, Hamid Idarus, and another wounded cohort managed to escape during the chaos.
Police operatives secured evidence from the clash site, including approximately two grams of suspected shabu with an estimated street value of P13,600. The authorities have stated that the arrested suspect and those who escaped will face charges for violating the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
