Task force formed to probe priest’s killing in Cagayan

A special task force has been formed by the provincial Philippine National Police to solve the brutal killing of Cagayan-based priest Fr. Mark Anthony Ventura.

“The PNP condemns in the strongest terms of the incident involving the death of Fr. Ventura, the assistant parish priest of Lallo, Cagayan, said Director for Directorate for Investigation and Detection Management Chief Supt. Elmo Sarona in a press conference at Camp Crame on Monday.

The priest was shot dead after celebrating Mass on Sunday in Gattaran, Cagayan by riding-in-tandem assailants.

“The PNP is conducting a very extensive investigation. As a matter of fact, a special investigation task group has already been created,” said Sarona.

As of latest, the regional police reported they were “pursuing several motives” but Sarona declined to elaborate.

“I cannot divulge so as not to preempt the investigation. Rest assured that the task group is doing its best to get to the bottom of the matter,” he said.

Ventura is reportedly known for his opposition to mining and for helping the indigenous peoples of Cagayan. /cbb