Three persons of interest in the abduction of American content creator Elliot Eastman were killed in an armed encounter in Kabasalan, Zamboanga Sibugay on Tuesday, November 12, 2024.

Police identified the fatalities as Morsid Ahod, and brothers Abdul and Fahad Sahibad.

Authorities engaged around 10 alleged lawless elements in a firefight.

According to the Police Regional Office-Zamboanga (PRO-9), Ahod was listed as seventh most wanted person in the region.

He was facing murder charges and had two warrants issued on May 3, 2016 and March 14, 2024 with no bail recommended.

Ahod was also implicated in several crimes, including kidnap for ransom, extortion, and theft. He was also allegedly involved in the Kabasalan massacre in 2015 and 2016.

Based on intelligence reports, police said Ahod and the Sahibad brothers allegedly provided refuge and support to other suspects and persons of interest in the abduction of Eastman.

Eastman was abducted by four armed men from his house in Sibuco, Zamboanga del Norte on October 17, 2024. He was shot in the leg when he refused to go with them. He was then forced to board a banca.

Government have commenced clearing operations at the clash site where R4 and M653 Carbine rifles were recovered.

There are no casualties on the government side.

Police said the operation was a result of a coordinated effort of the police, military, and local government units of Kabasalan and Naga with support from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).

“This success is a testament to the unwavering commitment of our forces in delivering justice and ensuring public safety. Let it serve as a powerful reminder that those who threaten the peace and security of our communities will be brought to justice,” PRO-9 Director, Brigadier General Bowenn Joey Masauding, said.

Authorities continue to assess the situation following the sightings of alleged lawless elements in the towns of Kabasalan and Naga.

Classes in the two towns have been suspended on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, as security operations continue.