MALUNGON, Sarangani Province – A man was killed while another was critically injured in a shooting incident linked to a long-standing land dispute in Purok Magsam, Barangay Atlae, Malungon, on the night of August 6.
Police identified the fatality only as alias Kelvin, who sustained a gunshot wound to the head that caused his instant death. His companion, alias Jong, suffered gunshot wounds to the body and remains in critical condition.
The suspect, known only as alias Alfred, is now the subject of a police manhunt after fleeing the scene immediately following the shooting.
Initial investigation revealed that the victims had entered a disputed piece of land claimed by two rival clans. It was there that the suspect allegedly opened fire.
Barangay Atlae Kagawad Joevil Landole confirmed that the motive behind the shooting was a land conflict, noting that tensions between the parties involved had been escalating prior to the incident.
Authorities continue their investigation to determine the full circumstances of the crime and are urging anyone with information on the suspect’s whereabouts to coordinate with the Malungon Municipal Police Station.