MIDSALIP, Zamboanga del Sur — A traditional “pamalaye” or asking for the hand in marriage ceremony in Barangay Gulictop turned into a tragic and violent scene after a 37-year-old man was killed during the gathering, leaving the community in shock.
The victim was identified as Elmer Landawon Bansal, a resident of the said barangay, who was reportedly present as part of a group of attendees during the family-to-family marriage negotiation when the incident occurred.
Based on initial police accounts and witness statements, the situation escalated abruptly when three suspects allegedly arrived at the gathering and attacked the victim without warning. The assailants reportedly used a bladed weapon and later shot Bansal in the head, causing him to collapse instantly.
Bansal was immediately rushed for medical treatment, but authorities confirmed he was declared dead on arrival due to severe head injuries.
In an exclusive interview, the victim’s brother, Lando Landawon Bansal, said the suspects suddenly barged into the event and carried out the attack in a matter of moments before fleeing the scene. He added that the incident may have been fueled by a personal grudge, with family members also suspecting that the attackers may have been under the influence of alcohol.
Police investigators are currently pursuing a possible personal conflict or misunderstanding as the motive behind the killing, although authorities have yet to release a final determination.
The three suspects were later apprehended by responding police forces shortly after the incident and are now under custody as investigations continue to establish the full circumstances of the crime.
The victim’s death has left his family devastated. Bansal is survived by his three young children aged 10, 6, and 4, who are now left without a father following the tragic incident.
Authorities have assured that a thorough investigation is ongoing to ensure justice for the victim and accountability for those responsible.