Mayor Akmad Ampatuan Survives Rocket Attack; 2 Security Guards Injured
Del Sur, Maguindanao, Philippines, Web Desk: Mayor Akmad Ampatuan of Shariff Aguak survived a dramatic RPG (rocket-propelled grenade) attack on 25 January, in Del Sur, Maguindanao. The mayor was traveling from a local market when a white van targeted his convoy near the municipal hall. The RPG struck his bulletproof Toyota Land Cruiser, causing smoke and damage, but Ampatuan reached safety. Two security personnel were injured when attackers opened fire on the rear vehicle with automatic weapons. CCTV footage shows assailants exiting the van and firing the RPG. Joint operations by the Philippine National Police and military led to the death of three suspects in a firefight in nearby Datu Unsay, where authorities recovered the RPG launcher and multiple rifles. This marks the third assassination attempt on Mayor Ampatuan since 2014, highlighting ongoing political tension and insecurity in the region.
