DAVAO CITY — A 43-year-old construction worker was rushed to the hospital after he was attacked with a katana sword by a suspected assailant while on his way to work early Monday morning, March 9, in Barangay Mintal, Tugbok District, authorities said.
The victim, identified only as alias “Fael,” a resident of San Rafael in Barangay Maa, sustained multiple injuries after being slashed with a katana, also known as a samurai sword, along Adelfa Street at around 6:30 a.m.
Police identified the suspect as alias “Josh,” 34, married, and a resident of Purok 3, Lacson, Barangay Calinan.
According to an initial report from Police Station 9 in Tugbok, the victim was heading toward a construction site where he works when the suspect allegedly lay in wait along the route. When the victim passed by, the suspect reportedly suddenly drew the katana and repeatedly slashed the victim, hitting him in various parts of the body.
The attack left the construction worker seriously wounded, prompting an emergency response.
Personnel from Central 911 quickly transported the victim to the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) for immediate medical treatment.
Authorities said the suspect was successfully apprehended shortly after the incident and is now detained at Police Station 9–Tugbok while investigators prepare the appropriate criminal charges.
Police have yet to determine the motive behind the attack. Investigators are continuing their probe to establish the circumstances that led to the violent assault.
The incident has raised concerns over the brazen use of a bladed weapon in a public area during early morning hours, when many residents are heading to work and school.
Authorities are urging witnesses or anyone with information about the attack to come forward as the investigation continues.