No specific information as to the identity of the armed group has been revealed, though speculation is rife. Some sources claim the group was headed by a certain Commander Derbi; however, General Alamanzor, chief of staff of the BangsaMoro Islamic Armed Forces of the MILF, denied that they have any member bearing that name.

Meanwhile the PNP and the AFP are working closely to capture the escapees.

Hence, we appeal for calm and sobriety.

We assure our people that manhunt operations on the escapees are now underway as BJMP units in Region 12 and nearby provinces are on heightened alert.