LAMBAYONG, Sultan Kudarat – A barangay captain was shot dead in broad daylight along the national highway in Barangay Poblacion, Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat, Saturday afternoon, October 18.
The victim was identified as Barangay Captain Esmakil Palaguyan Sambilan of Barangay Lagao, Lambayong. Initial police investigation revealed that Sambilan was aboard a white Toyota Hi-Ace van with plate number AEC 2311 and was heading toward the municipal hall when two unidentified gunmen riding a Bajaj motorcycle approached and opened fire.
Sambilan sustained multiple gunshot wounds while his companions escaped unharmed. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but was declared dead on arrival, according to attending physicians.
The police recovered several spent shells from the crime scene and are conducting a hot pursuit operation against the suspects. Authorities are also investigating the possible rido (clan feud) as one of the motives, although this remains subject to validation.
The Lambayong Municipal Police Station and the Sultan Kudarat Provincial Police Office have vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice as investigation continues.