POLOMOLOK, South Cotabato — Two brothers were injured after being shot by an unidentified gunman in Purok 4, Barangay Polo, Polomolok, at around 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, authorities reported.
The victims were identified as Jessie Mata and Rolando Mata, both residents of Barangay Maligo in the same municipality. Rolando is reportedly employed as a security guard of a major pineapple company in the area.
Initial police investigation revealed that Jessie sustained a gunshot wound to the leg, with the bullet exiting through his arm, while Rolando was also hit in the leg. Both victims survived the attack and were immediately brought to a nearby medical facility for treatment. Their current condition has not yet been disclosed.
According to statements from the victims, investigators are looking into a possible personal grudge as the motive behind the shooting. The brothers had reportedly been involved in repeated efforts to apprehend individuals allegedly stealing pineapples from local plantations. This has raised the possibility that the attack may have been an act of retaliation.
The suspect, whose identity remains unknown, fled the scene immediately after the shooting, prompting a manhunt by local police authorities.
Law enforcement officials are continuing a thorough and ongoing investigation to identify and arrest the gunman. They are also exploring other angles, including disputes related to agricultural activities in the area, particularly those involving pineapple farms, which are a major source of livelihood in Polomolok.
Authorities urge anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward and assist in the investigation as efforts intensify to bring the perpetrator to justice.