SAN MIGUEL, Zamboanga del Sur — Two lending collectors were seriously injured after being stabbed by the man they were collecting payment from, along with his relative, during a violent confrontation in Purok Makiangayon, Barangay Dao-an, on Friday evening, November 28.
The victims were identified only by their aliases: Aljon, 27, a resident of Tambulig, and Mark Vince, 21, of Guipos, Zamboanga del Sur.
According to the police investigation, the victims went to the residence of Genesis, 26, to collect an outstanding debt. However, the situation quickly escalated into a heated argument. Authorities said Genesis was drunk at the time of the incident.
Investigators reported that Genesis suddenly attacked Aljon, prompting the collector to defend himself using the helmet he was carrying. Enraged, Genesis rushed inside his home, grabbed a kitchen knife, and stabbed Aljon.
When Mark attempted to intervene, he was allegedly attacked by Genesis’ uncle, identified as Rene, who also stabbed him.
Concerned residents immediately rushed the two wounded collectors to the San Miguel Rural Health Unit before they were transferred to a larger medical facility for further treatment.
Genesis has since surrendered to responding police officers, while Rene fled the scene and remains at large. Police recovered a six-inch kitchen knife believed to have been used in the stabbing.
The San Miguel Municipal Police Station has launched a hot pursuit operation to track down the second suspect as the investigation continues.
Authorities condemned the attack and reminded the public to remain calm and avoid violence when settling disputes, especially those involving debt collection.