ZAMBOANGA CITY — A 25-year-old man was shot dead by his former barangay watchman neighbor early Tuesday morning, November 11, in Barangay Sta. Catalina, Zamboanga City.
The victim was identified as Remil Akil Jangas, while the suspect was named Sajid Alap-ap Hajula, 40, both residents of Kasulutan Drive in the same barangay. Hajula remains at large as police continue their hot pursuit operation.
According to a report from Zamboanga City Police Station 11, the incident occurred around 3:20 a.m. when Jangas and a friend were having coffee near the suspect’s home. Hajula reportedly asked where he could buy cigarettes, but upon being told that stores were still closed, he became furious and punched the victim.
Moments later, the suspect went back inside his house, returned armed with a firearm, and shot Jangas in the stomach after an initial misfire. The victim was immediately rushed to the Zamboanga City Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead on arrival by attending physician Dr. Kris Marvin S. Tan.
Witnesses said Hajula fled the scene after threatening them not to report the incident. No empty shells were recovered from the area, suggesting the weapon may have been a revolver.
Authorities are now conducting follow-up investigations and appealing to the public for any information that could lead to the arrest of the suspect.
Police reminded the public to report disputes to authorities rather than resorting to violence, emphasizing that one moment of anger can cost a life and destroy many others.