Esmael Abubakar, also known as Kumander Bungos and identified as a leader of a faction of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), was killed in a joint police and military operation in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao del Norte.

Authorities said Abubakar had a ₱3-million reward on his head and was the subject of five arrest warrants covering serious criminal charges, including murder, frustrated murder, qualified direct assault, attempted murder, and destructive arson.According to the Philippine National Police (PNP), the operation took place at around 1:10 a.m.in Sitio Tambak, Barangay Calsada.

Personnel from the Police Regional Office–Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, the PNP Special Action Force, and the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ 601st Brigade surrounded his reported hideout after receiving intelligence reports on his location.Police said officers identified themselves and ordered Abubakar to surrender, but he allegedly responded by drawing a .45 caliber pistol and firing at the arresting team, prompting a shootout.Abubakar was rushed to the Cotabato Sanitarium General Hospital but was declared dead on arrival or shortly after arrival, according to authorities.Recovered from the scene was a .45 caliber pistol with a defaced serial number and a loaded chamber.He was identified as the chairman of the BIFF-Bungos faction and a former vice chairman for political affairs under BIFF founder Ameril Umbra Kato.

Authorities described him as the most wanted person in parts of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region and Maguindanao del Sur, linking his group to several attacks against government forces and civilians, including an ambush in Shariff Aguak on March 28.Officials said the operation is part of ongoing efforts to improve peace and security in the region.