BARMM, Maguindanao del Sur gov’t condemn South Upi Vice Mayor killing

The Bangsamoro government on Saturday spoke out against the ambush and killing of South Upi Vice Mayor Roldan Benito.

“This senseless act of violence is a stark reminder of the challenges we face in our region," the Bangsamoro government said in a statement.

"It is a direct attack on the progress we have made towards peace, unity, and development. We cannot  allow the perpetrators of this heinous crime to go unpunished.”

Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim called for a thorough investigation of the incident and directed concerned agencies in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region to aid the investigation.

“The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region is built on the foundation of inclusivity and diversity. We are a region comprised of various ethnic and religious groups, each with their unique cultures and traditions… Violence has no place in our region. Together, let us work as one Bangsamoro to address the root causes of conflict and create an environment where everyone feels safe and protected,” the statement read.

Meanwhile, the  Maguindanao del Sur Governor Mariam Mangudadatu condemned the shooting and expressed her condolences to the grieving family.

“Ang nasabing pangyayari ay nagdulot ng takot at pangamba sa nasabing bayan. Ito ay malinaw na taliwas at paglalapastangan sa kapayapaang isinusulong sa probinsya… Hangad namin ang mabilisang  pagresolba ng kaso at hustisya para sa lahat ng mga biktima,” Mangudadatu said her statement.

(The incident has caused fear and anxiety in our area. This is a violation of the peace being promoted in the province… We hope for the speedy resolution of the case  and justice for all victims)

The Maguindanao del Sur Police also condemned the assassination.

“The Maguindanao del Sur Police Provincial Office Strongly Condemned the ambush involving Vice Mayor ROLDAN M BENITO who were ambushed by lawless elements that resulted in the deaths of the victim and his nephew," the statement read.

The provincial police office also said two of Benito's relatives were wounded in the August 2 ambush in Sitio Linao, Brgy Pandan, South Upi.

They encouraged the public to report any suspicious activities to the police. — DVM, GMA Integrated News