ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – At least six members of the government militia were killed when their comrade ran amuck Sunday night in a detachment in Ipil town, Zamboanga Sibugay, a military official said.
The suspect was subsequently killed as he engaged pursuing Army troops in Barangay Palid yesterday morning, according to Col. Santiago Baluyot, commanding officer of the Army’s 102nd Brigade based in Ipil town.
The slain victims were identified as Nilo Rodas and his brother Narciso, Ike Horia, Edgar Sebila and Salvador Belino, all members of the Citizen Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) Special Active Auxiliary while the slain suspect, their comrade was identified as Oligario Bucal Jr.
Baluyot said investigation showed that the suspect reportedly took the issued M14 rifle of his father and strafed his fellow militia force members who were detailed at the detachment near the wharf in Barangay Palid about 7:30 p.m. Sunday night.
Baluyot said responding military troops tried to persuade the suspect to surrender but instead fired on the soldiers prompting the troops to engage and killed the suspect about 6:30 a.m. yesterday.
“The troops tried to convince the suspect but engaged our soldiers who were prompted to engage and neutralize him,” Baluyot said.
Police investigation revealed that the suspect has not eaten for two days before attacking his comrades who were preparing for election duty yesterday.
“The incident is isolated and not election related,” Baluyot added.
– With Alexis Romero - By Roel Pareño
