A PRE-DAWN demolition in San Roque, Bangkal, Davao City, on Jan. 29, spiraled into violence with one person ending up dead from a gunshot wound and prompting a police manhunt.
At approximately 2 a.m., the Talomo Police Station received reports of an unauthorized demolition involving an estimated 200 individuals.
Responding officers, along with the 1st Davao City Mobile Force Company and SWAT, arrived at the scene to find a commotion underway.
Sixty-five individuals were apprehended at the scene, and nine minors were rescued and turned over to the City Social Welfare and Development Office.
Eyewitnesses reported that a man known as “Jun Jun/Libat” fired a gun into the crowd after becoming trapped in an alley.
Tragically, he accidentally shot one of his own companions, identified as alias Nolly, 30, a resident of Pantinople Village, Maa.
Nolly was transported to Davao Doctors Hospital with a gunshot wound to the chest but died shortly after.
The suspect fled the scene after the shooting and remains at large.
Police have launched a hot pursuit operation to apprehend him. Authorities confirmed that “Jun Jun/Libat” is a known figure in the area and has led similar illegal demolition activities in the past.
During clearing operations, police recovered several deadly weapons, which were documented and secured as evidence. Residents were interviewed to gather further information about the incident and identify the other individuals involved.
The apprehended suspects were taken to the Talomo Police Station for documentation and investigation. Charges are being prepared against them, including “Jun Jun/Libat,” who, despite being at large, will also face charges related to the illegal demolition and the shooting.
Moreover, the police investigation is ongoing, to further arrest the said individuals involved in such activity.
Photo courtesy of DCPO
