September 30, 2026 | Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte
A 24-year-old employee of an animal care center was injured after he was allegedly attacked with a pair of scissors during a suspected robbery in Barangay Tamontaka, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte, on the morning of Wednesday, September 30.
The victim, identified in police reports as Jonel Balitao, a resident of Sitio Tambanan, Barangay Awang, was reportedly approached by an unidentified suspect who allegedly declared a robbery before attacking him during the incident.
According to initial information from the Datu Odin Sinsuat Municipal Police Station, the incident occurred at approximately 8:35 a.m. at FirstAid Animal Care, where Balitao was reportedly working as an employee of Purr’s Aid Veterinary Clinic.
During the alleged robbery, the victim was reportedly injured after being attacked with scissors. The suspect subsequently fled the scene in an undetermined direction, leaving the injured employee in need of immediate medical attention.
Balitao was rushed to the Cotabato Regional and Medical Center for treatment. His current medical condition has not been established in the available initial reports.
Police have launched a hot pursuit operation to identify, locate and apprehend the suspect or suspects responsible for the attack. Investigators are also working to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the motive and whether any money or personal belongings were taken.
Authorities have yet to release the identity of the suspect or confirm whether more than one person was involved. Investigators are continuing to gather evidence and seek witness accounts to reconstruct the events leading up to the attack.
The incident has raised concerns over the safety of workers in establishments that may be vulnerable to robbery, particularly those who find themselves alone or exposed during operating hours. However, the full circumstances of the incident remain subject to police investigation.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to establish the facts and determine accountability for the attack.