Three individuals were killed in a joint police and military operation in Barangay Sinunuc, Zamboanga City, early Thursday, 23 April 2026. Authorities stated the operation was conducted to serve an arrest warrant for Saddam Siddik, an alleged member of the Dawlah Islamiya-Abu Sayyaf Group, after months of surveillance. Police claimed the suspects fired at operatives, prompting a retaliatory response that left Jerry Indan Alfad, his nephew Rayyan Hassan Alfad, and 12-year-old Salam Aradais Alfad dead, while two females sustained injuries.
The police presented an M16 rifle and a hand grenade allegedly recovered from the scene, but the victims’ family denied any involvement in illegal activities, accusing authorities of planting evidence. Mohammad Asiri Alfad, Jerry’s son, recounted hearing gunfire before being restrained, claiming his relatives were unarmed and unjustly killed.
Barangay Chairperson Pilarica Ledesma expressed shock, stating Jerry had served in the Barangay Lupon for years and questioned the legitimacy of the operation, suggesting mistaken identity. Police Regional Office-9 has launched an investigation, reviewing bodycam footage for possible lapses.
The victims were buried following Islamic rites, with their family demanding justice and transparency. Mohammad criticized the warrant’s validity, alleging flawed intelligence. (Queenie Casimiro/MindaNews)
