Sultan Kudarat, Philippines – A deadly maritime attack claimed the lives of three fishermen and left one missing after their boat was ambushed and set ablaze off the coast of Tapul, Sulu, on August 23, according to police reports and family accounts. Only one of the five fishermen survived.
The victims—identified as Esmael Mohammad, Gerald Mohammad, and Oscar Arpa—were residents of Milbuk, Palimbang in Sultan Kudarat Province. Their remains were later recovered in nearby waters off Parang, Sulu. A fourth fisherman, John Mohammad, remains missing, while Muktar Mohammad was found alive and rescued by maritime police.
Initial investigations suggest that the fishing vessel was targeted by unidentified armed men, who allegedly fired high-powered rifles and grenade launchers at the boat, causing it to catch fire. Authorities have yet to determine the motive behind the attack, which could involve piracy or other regional security threats.
In response to the tragedy, Sulu Vice Governor Abdusakur M. Tan called for tighter maritime security across vulnerable coastal areas. “This incident highlights the urgent need to improve coastal patrols and intelligence to protect our fishing communities,” he said. Police and local officials are now coordinating to track down the suspects and prevent similar attacks.
The Police Regional Office of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO-BAR) has deployed additional resources to assist in the investigation. Meanwhile, community members in Palimbang are mourning the loss and urging authorities to act swiftly, as fear spreads among fishermen who rely on these waters for their livelihood. Cali Demi
