Pikit, Cotabato – Tragedy struck the town of Pikit this afternoon, October 10, 2024, as two separate shooting incidents claimed the lives of a businessman and a school bus driver within a short span of time.
In the first incident, coffee shop owner Rommel Aban, also known by the alias “Balong,” was shot dead by unidentified gunmen inside his store located at the public market of Pikit. Aban, a resident of Barangay Tunggol, Datu Montawal, Maguindanao del Sur, was pronounced dead on the spot. He was the son of the owner of Pamogon Kape, a well-known local business in the area. Authorities are still investigating the motive behind the shooting and the identities of the suspects.
Minutes after this incident, another shooting took place involving a school bus transporting teachers. The driver, identified as Ariel Abrinica, a resident of Barangay Colambog, Pikit, Cotabato, was gunned down by unknown assailants while driving his mini-van in Barangay Silik, Pikit. Abrinica was rushed to the nearest hospital, but despite efforts to save his life, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arriving at the medical facility.
Authorities are currently investigating both cases, and there is no clear information yet on whether the two shootings are related or if they are isolated incidents. The local police are working to identify the suspects and are calling on witnesses to come forward with any information that may aid in their investigation.
The community is reeling from the back-to-back incidents, and residents are urging authorities to ensure justice is served. These killings come amidst rising concerns over the surge of violence in Pikit and the surrounding areas.
More updates will be provided as investigations continue.
