Mayor Akmad Ampatuan Survives RPG Ambush in Shariff Aguak, Fourth Attempt on His Life
Shariff Aguak Mayor Akmad Ampatuan was targeted in a brazen rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) ambush on Sunday morning, January 25, 2026, in Barangay Mother Poblacion, Maguindanao del Sur. The mayor, traveling in a black armored Toyota Land Cruiser, escaped unharmed, but two of his security personnel sustained injuries in the attack, which authorities have identified as the fourth assassination attempt against him.
Details of the Attack and Immediate Aftermath
According to initial reports from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (BAR) police, the ambush occurred as Mayor Ampatuan was on his way home. CCTV footage captured the moment a gray minivan, believed to be the source of the RPG-7 fire, launched the explosive projectile at the mayor's vehicle. The impact was strong, but the mayor's bulletproof Land Cruiser absorbed the blast, protecting him from harm. The attackers fled the scene immediately after the incident.
Police Captain Steffi Salungit, spokesperson for PRO Bangsamoro, confirmed in a radio interview on January 25 that the mayor is in good condition. "Si mayor okay po siya ngayon, yung dalawang securities niya nasa hospital din po, both may tama sa left side ng abdomen. As reported, wala po injuries si Mayor," Salungit stated. The two injured security personnel, hit on the left side of the abdomen, received prompt medical attention and are now reported to be in stable condition.
Police Response and Heightened Security Measures
Following the ambush, a hot pursuit operation was launched, resulting in the death of three suspects. Their identities are currently under verification as part of an ongoing investigation. In response to the incident, units across Maguindanao del Sur have been placed on heightened alert status to prevent potential follow-up attacks and ensure public safety in the region.
Shariff Aguak: A Political Hotspot with a History of Violence
Shariff Aguak has long been recognized as a political hotspot in Maguindanao del Sur, historically serving as the provincial capital and remaining a key center of political power. The area is characterized by:
- Entrenched clan-based politics
- Intense competition for leadership positions
- A persistent history of election-related violence
Authorities have noted that the presence of armed groups and the proliferation of loose firearms further exacerbate tensions, particularly during politically sensitive periods. This environment has contributed to multiple violent incidents targeting local officials.
Mayor Ampatuan's Previous Assassination Attempts
This recent ambush marks the fourth known assassination attempt on Mayor Ampatuan's life, highlighting the persistent dangers faced by politicians in the region:
- 2014: An earlier ambush incident occurred, though details from this period remain part of the town's violent history.
- December 24, 2019: While serving as vice mayor, Ampatuan was attacked in an ambush that resulted in the deaths of two of his personnel and both drivers, who sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Ampatuan survived as he was driving the vehicle, with gunfire concentrated on the passenger seats.
- August 14, 2023: Gunmen using high-caliber firearms ambushed Ampatuan, causing him to sustain a shoulder injury and resulting in the death of his bodyguard.
The repeated targeting of Mayor Ampatuan underscores the volatile political landscape in Shariff Aguak and raises concerns about ongoing security challenges in Maguindanao del Sur.
