Lebak, Sultan Kudarat – A police intelligence officer was fatally shot by two unidentified gunmen in Purok Narra 1, Barangay Poblacion 1, on the night of December 30, 2024. The tragic incident has left the local community in shock as authorities investigate the motives behind the attack.
The victim, identified as Staff Master Sgt. Louie Noble of the Lebak Municipal Police Office, was conducting surveillance at a local fair alongside civilian agents when the gunmen approached and opened fire. Sgt. Noble sustained fatal gunshot wounds to his head and body, resulting in his immediate death at the scene.
Three civilians were also injured during the shooting. Cresensiano Sia, 33, sustained a foot injury; Ronaldo Fernando, 32, was wounded in the hand; and Christian Pedro, 24, suffered a back injury. All three are residents of Lebak and are currently receiving medical treatment.
Authorities from the Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) recovered ten spent shells from .45 and .40 caliber pistols at the crime scene, indicating the use of high-powered firearms. Investigators are considering the possibility that the attack may be related to Sgt. Noble’s work in law enforcement.
Col. Bernard Lao, director of the Sultan Kudarat Police Provincial Office, confirmed the incident and stated that a full investigation is underway. “Our priority is to identify and apprehend the perpetrators of this heinous crime,” he said, adding that pursuit operations are ongoing.
Lt. Col. Joseph Galleto, the chief of Lebak Police, is leading the investigation. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the suspects or the motive behind the attack to come forward.
The incident underscores the dangers faced by law enforcement officers in the line of duty and has sparked calls for increased measures to protect those tasked with maintaining peace and order.