2 siblings active in peacekeeping killed in ambush in Sultan Kudarat

COTABATO CITY — Two siblings, both known for their active voluntary support of police and local government peacekeeping efforts, were killed in an ambush on Friday, December 12, in Barangay Udtong, Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat.

Local executives and municipal police officials in Lambayong told reporters on Sunday, December 14, that the ambush left 20-year-old Arnel Zabila Anas and his 24-year-old brother, Joemar, dead.

Friends and relatives said the two, residents of Sigayan in Lambayong, were well known for their active role in maintaining law and order in the municipality and for supporting the joint anti-narcotics campaign of the local government and police.

The siblings were riding a motorcycle home after watching a basketball game in the municipality when gunmen ambushed them in Barangay Udtong, killing them both instantly.

Barangay officials and investigators from the Lambayong Municipal Police Station said the armed assailants escaped before responding police officers and volunteer community watchmen could arrive at the scene.