COTABATO CITY — A late-night exchange of gunfire in a coastal community here left one fisherman dead and three others injured, including a minor, authorities confirmed on Saturday.
The shooting occurred at around 10:50 p.m. on Friday, February 14, 2026, in Sitio Bucana, Purok 4, Mother Barangay Kalanganan. Responding police officers found the victim with multiple gunshot wounds, while several bystanders were also hit by stray bullets.
City Police Director Jibin Bongcayao identified the fatality as 35-year-old Al Anie Akmad Ayob, a resident and fisherman in the area. He was declared dead on arrival at the hospital.
Three other individuals were wounded in the incident, including a student who is a minor. All injured victims were immediately rushed to the Cotabato Regional and Medical Center (CRMC) for emergency treatment. Hospital officials said the victims are now in stable condition.
Dispute Over Fish Business
Based on the initial investigation conducted by Police Station 4, authorities said the shooting stemmed from a heated argument between the victim and the suspects over their fish trading business.
“The confrontation reportedly escalated, leading to an exchange of gunfire,” police said in a statement. “Several residents in the vicinity were caught in the crossfire.”
A concerned citizen immediately alerted authorities, prompting a swift response from police units in the area.
Firearms Evidence Recovered
Personnel from the Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) of the Regional Forensic Unit BAR processed the crime scene and recovered significant ballistic evidence.
Investigators found:
- 11 spent shell casings from a 9mm pistol
- Three spent shell casings from a .45 caliber firearm
These pieces of evidence are now undergoing forensic examination to help identify the weapons used and establish responsibility.
Suspect Arrested, Manhunt Ongoing
Police confirmed that one of the suspects was arrested shortly after the incident. The suspect sustained a gunshot wound to the leg and is currently receiving medical treatment at CRMC under tight police guard.
Meanwhile, authorities are continuing a manhunt for another suspect who managed to flee the scene following the shooting.
Law enforcement agencies have set up checkpoints and intensified patrols in nearby areas to prevent the suspect’s escape and to maintain public safety.
Cases Being Prepared
The Cotabato City Police Office said criminal charges, including homicide and frustrated homicide, are being prepared against the arrested suspect and his accomplice.
“We are committed to pursuing justice for the victim and ensuring that all those responsible are held accountable,” Bongcayao said. “We also urge residents to cooperate with authorities and report any information that may help in the investigation.”
Police likewise appealed to the public to avoid settling business and personal disputes through violence and encouraged community members to seek peaceful means of resolving conflicts.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine the full circumstances behind the deadly confrontation.