Authorities are conducting pursuit and area-clearing operations after an armed group allegedly carried out explosions and indiscriminate firing in a coastal area of Cotabato City on Monday night, September 28.

The Cotabato City Police Office (CCPO) said the incident was reported at around 8:30 p.m. in Purok Pakistan, MB Kalanganan.

Residents reportedly heard three consecutive loud explosions, followed by sporadic gunfire coming from the direction of Sitio Kidopo in Kalanganan 1.

According to the initial police investigation, an unidentified armed group was allegedly positioned across the river and was using undetermined high-powered firearms and a suspected M79 grenade launcher.

The armed individuals reportedly withdrew toward Sitio Baguer in Kalanganan 1.

The CCPO said no injuries or property damage have been reported in connection with the incident.

Police personnel, together with the Philippine Army, Philippine Marines, MBLTE6, the Cotabato City Mobile Force Company, and CCPO investigators, were deployed to verify the report and secure the area.

Authorities are also pursuing the possible identification and apprehension of those involved.

The CCPO said initial information indicated that the incident may have stemmed from a personal grudge, although authorities are still validating the information.

CCPO City Director Police Colonel Jibin M. Bongcayao said the investigation and security operations remain ongoing. Appropriate charges will be filed once those responsible are identified and sufficient evidence is established.