PIKIT, Cotabato — Two farmers were shot dead in a broad daylight ambush while riding a motorcycle in Pikit, Cotabato, on Friday, July 3, as police continue to investigate the motive behind the attack, including a possible connection to a pending criminal case involving one of the victims.
The victims were later identified as Badrudin Nunungan and Basnarin Midtimbang Dracula, both 27 years old, married, and residents of Pikit who earned a living as farmers.
According to the initial police investigation, the victims were traveling together on a black Honda XRM motorcycle bearing plate number 171LQT along Street 75 in Bagong Lote, Barangay Poblacion when they were suddenly attacked by two unidentified gunmen.
Witnesses told investigators that the assailants, both reportedly wearing black jackets, repeatedly opened fire on the victims without warning, hitting them multiple times. The sustained gunfire left both men with fatal gunshot wounds, and they were declared dead on the spot by responding authorities.
After carrying out the attack, the suspects immediately fled toward Barangay Gli-gli in the Special Geographic Area (SGA) of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
Police have launched a hot pursuit operation while investigators continue gathering evidence, reviewing possible surveillance footage, and interviewing witnesses to establish the identities of the attackers and determine the motive behind the deadly assault.
Authorities disclosed that one of the victims was reportedly facing an impending warrant of arrest in connection with a frustrated murder case that is also under investigation. However, investigators stressed that it is still too early to conclude whether the pending case is directly linked to Friday’s ambush.
Police have not ruled out other possible motives, including personal conflict, retaliation, or other criminal angles, as the investigation remains ongoing.
The shooting has raised concerns among residents of Pikit, where authorities continue to strengthen security measures while pursuing those responsible.
Investigators are also appealing to the public for assistance. Anyone who witnessed the incident, recognizes the suspects, or has information that could help identify those involved is urged to immediately report to the nearest police station.
Authorities emphasized that all information provided by concerned citizens will be treated with appropriate confidentiality as efforts continue to bring the perpetrators to justice.