KABUNTALAN, Maguindanao del Norte — A fisherman was shot dead by an unidentified assailant in a brazen roadside attack on Thursday evening, prompting an ongoing police investigation and manhunt operation.
The victim, identified as Mohalidin Alfonso Langeban, a married resident of Pagalungan in Kabuntalan, was traversing a municipal road in Barangay Ganta at around 7:18 p.m. when the attack happened. According to the Kabuntalan Municipal Police Station, the assailant suddenly opened fire, hitting the victim multiple times.
Despite the severity of his injuries, Langeban was rushed to the Cotabato Regional Medical Center for emergency treatment. However, attending physicians later declared him dead on arrival.
Initial investigation revealed that the suspect fled the scene immediately after the shooting, escaping aboard a black vehicle believed to be a “Stingray,” heading toward the direction of Datu Odin Sinsuat.
Responding police units arrived at the crime scene at approximately 7:30 p.m., where they recovered six spent shell casings believed to be from a 9mm firearm. Authorities also found a Honda Wave 100 motorcycle with plate number MC 1533 PG, believed to be associated with the victim.
Investigators are currently working to identify the suspect and establish the motive behind the killing. Police have yet to determine whether the incident was premeditated or linked to personal or criminal disputes.
The fatal shooting underscores ongoing security concerns in parts of Maguindanao del Norte, as authorities intensify efforts to ensure public safety and bring those responsible to justice.