PNP denounces Basilan attack, vows to go after perpetrators

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 31): PNP denounces Basilan attack, vows to go after perpetrators

The Philippine National Police (PNP) vowed to go after those behind the bombing of a Civilian Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) detachment in Lamitan City, Basilan Tuesday morning.

"We will mobilize all available resources at our disposal to bring the authors of this crime before the bar of justice.We urge the peace-loving people of Basilan not to be cowed by this single act of heinous terror but to keep calm but vigilant against any attempt to sow violence and disrupt our normal lives," PNP spokesman Senior Supt. Benigno Durana Jr. said in a statement.

"We join the Filipino nation in strongly condemning this bastardly act of taking human lives for whatever motive its perpetrators may have," the PNP added.

The explosion took place at 5:50 a.m. near the Magwakit Detachment in Barangay Colonia, Lamitan City.

Reports said troops in the area intercepted a white van containing IEDs.

The vehicle was being inspected when an explosion tore into it, killing one soldier, five CAFGU members and four civilians, including the driver who was believed to be the suspect.

Also wounded were one CAFGU and six members of the 9th Scout Ranger Company.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1043244