In a significant counter-terrorism victory, Philippine National Police (PNP) operatives have apprehended an alleged bomb manufacturer with suspected ties to ISIS-inspired local terrorist groups during a carefully executed operation in Sultan Kudarat.
The arrest took place in Barangay New Passi, Tacurong City, where law enforcement personnel captured Kamsa Bansil, also known as 'Kumander Bansil,' a 38-year-old individual identified as a key figure in manufacturing improvised explosive devices (IEDs) for extremist elements.
Major Explosives Cache Uncovered
Authorities revealed that the operation yielded a substantial haul of dangerous materials, including:
- A complete improvised explosive device ready for deployment
- Two 60mm mortar ammunition rounds
- A 40mm M203 grenade launcher projectile
- Various bomb-making components and accessories
- Assorted blasting caps and triggering mechanisms
Intelligence-Driven Operation
Police Brigadier General Jimili Macaraeg, PRO-12 regional director, emphasized that the successful apprehension resulted from weeks of intelligence gathering and surveillance operations. "This operation has potentially prevented numerous terrorist activities and saved countless lives," Macaraeg stated during a press briefing.
The suspect is believed to have provided explosive devices to the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), a militant organization known for its allegiance to ISIS ideologies and responsible for multiple bombing incidents across Mindanao.
Ongoing Security Operations
Following this critical arrest, security forces have intensified operations throughout the Soccsksargen region. Police officials confirmed that additional operations are underway to identify and apprehend other individuals connected to Bansil's bomb-making network.
"This arrest represents a major blow to terrorist capabilities in Mindanao," a police intelligence officer commented anonymously. "Removing bomb makers from the equation significantly disrupts their operational capacity."
The suspect is currently detained at Tacurong City Police Station facing multiple charges related to illegal possession of explosives and terrorism-related activities under the Philippines' Anti-Terrorism Act.
