A man was seriously wounded after being shot several times by unidentified assailants Monday evening, March 9, in Sitio Balite, Barangay Fort Pikit, Malidegao in the Special Geographic Area (SGA) of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
The victim was identified as Barkle M. Salik, who sustained at least five gunshot wounds to different parts of his body during the attack.
Initial information indicated that the shooting incident occurred in the Port Pikit area of the municipality. Responders rushed Salik to a nearby hospital where he is currently undergoing treatment under the care of attending physicians.
Authorities recovered several empty shell casings at the crime scene believed to have been fired from a .45 caliber pistol, suggesting the victim was repeatedly shot during the attack.
Police have yet to determine the identity of the gunmen and the motive behind the shooting. Investigators are now conducting a thorough probe, including gathering witness statements and reviewing possible leads that could help identify the suspects.
Local police units have also begun coordinating with community officials in the area as part of efforts to track down those responsible for the crime.
The Special Geographic Area (SGA), which consists of several barangays formerly part of North Cotabato but now under BARMM administration, has seen heightened security monitoring as authorities continue efforts to maintain peace and order.
As of this writing, the condition of Salik remains under medical observation while authorities continue their investigation into the shooting.
The news team is also coordinating with the local police station for additional details regarding the incident.