An off-duty police officer from General Santos City was apprehended after allegedly killing a bus passenger and injuring two fellow policemen in a series of violent incidents in Cotabato and Davao del Sur early Saturday morning, December 28.
Passenger Shot Dead
The suspect, identified as Police Corporal (PCpl.) Alfred Dawatan Sabas, reportedly shot and killed a passenger aboard a Mindanao Star bus traveling through Barangay Batasan, Makilala, North Cotabato. The victim, Reynaldo Bigno Jr., a resident of Sitio Flortam, Batasan, died instantly from a gunshot wound to the head.
Authorities said the incident occurred at approximately 2:30 a.m. Sabas, who was traveling with his wife, became involved in an altercation on the bus. The confrontation escalated, resulting in Sabas allegedly pulling out his firearm and shooting Bigno.
Officers Injured at Checkpoint
Following the shooting, Sabas directed the bus driver to proceed to a nearby checkpoint at Barangay New Opon, Magsaysay, Davao del Sur, manned by officers of the 1104th Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB). However, instead of cooperating, Sabas allegedly opened fire on two on-duty officers, PCpl. Kenth Maurith Ramos and Patrolman (Pat.) Russel Love Tapia. Both officers sustained injuries and were rushed to a hospital for treatment.
Hot Pursuit and Arrest
Sabas fled the scene after the attacks but was apprehended during a hot pursuit operation later that morning. He is now in custody at the Magsaysay Municipal Police Station. Investigators disclosed that Sabas was allegedly under the influence of alcohol during the incidents.
Community Shocked
The series of violent events has shocked the local community and raised questions about accountability within the police force. Authorities assured the public of a thorough investigation and emphasized that the suspect will face legal consequences for his actions.
The injured officers, Ramos and Tapia, are reportedly in stable condition as they recover from their injuries. Meanwhile, the family of Reynaldo Bigno Jr. is calling for justice as they mourn their loss.
Police Response
The Police Regional Office 12 has condemned the actions of PCpl. Sabas, reiterating that such behavior does not reflect the values of the Philippine National Police (PNP). “We will ensure that justice is served,” a spokesperson said. An administrative case has also been filed against the suspect, in addition to the criminal charges.
The investigation remains ongoing, and further details are expected to be released in the coming days.