2 bomb suspects slain in ‘shootout’

COTABATO CITY, Philippines — Two bomb suspects were killed in an alleged shootout in Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur on Sunday.

Manan Ulama Udza and Riyad Salim Mandaya died instantly from gunshot wounds, according to the  Army’s 6th Infantry Division and the Bangsamoro police.

Udza and Mandaya were reportedly members of the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, which was believed behind bomb attacks in Central Mindanao.

The suspects, who were on a motorcycle, reportedly drew their guns upon reaching a checkpoint manned by police and military officers in Barangay Elian.

A brief shootout allegedly ensued and resulted in the death of the suspects.

Brig. Gen. Oriel Pangcog, chief of the Army’s 601st Infantry Brigade, said a bag containing an improvised explosive device was reportedly found beside the remains of the suspects.