Pikit, North Cotabato – A local businessman was killed while his helper was wounded in a shooting incident in Barangay Inug-ug, Pikit, on the evening of Wednesday, May 6, 2026.
The victim was identified as Nasrullah Balaguna Adam, 32, also known by his alias Datu Dula, a resident and businessman in the area. His 18-year-old helper, Benhar Sabpel, sustained a gunshot wound to his leg and is currently undergoing treatment.
According to reports from the Pikit Police, the victims were traveling in their Nissan Navarra (plate number LAP 2842) from their farm in Brgy. Nalapaan, Malidegao, Special Geographic Area (SGA), BARMM, heading home when two unidentified men on a black Kawasaki Bajaj motorcycle suddenly appeared. Without warning, the suspects opened fire from the passenger side of the vehicle. Adam was struck multiple times, including to the head, while Sabpel was hit in the leg.
Adam was immediately rushed to Crusado Hospital and later transferred to Cotabato Regional and Medical Center due to the severity of his injuries. However, he was pronounced dead on arrival by attending physicians. Sabpel remains under hospital care.
After the shooting, the suspects fled toward the inner area of Brgy. Bulol, Ligawasan, SGA BARMM. Authorities have issued alerts to nearby police stations to help identify and locate the assailants.
The Pikit Police are conducting a thorough investigation to determine the motive behind the attack and to apprehend those responsible. This incident marks yet another violent episode in the town, alarming local residents about the rising threat to public safety.