Rebel returnee shot by ex-comrades in Army uniforms in Zambo Sur
PAGADIAN CITY – A former member of the New People’s Army was waylaid and shot by former comrades in Purok 3, Barangay Guitalos, Midsalip town in Zamboanga Del Sur on Saturday.
Major Ronald Suscano, spokesperson of the 1st Infantry Division, Philippine Army confirmed the incident on Monday and identified the victim as Benben Gumandag Mandao, 27 years old, a rebel returnee and a resident of the same barangay.
The Midsalip police reported that Mandao was walking alone on his way home and upon reaching a secluded area near a river, he was confronted by four unidentified men wearing Philippine Army uniforms. Two of the assailants armed with rifles shot the victim several times, the military said.
After the attack, the gunmen fled on foot toward Barangay Lison Valley in Pagadian City.
Mandao sustained multiple gunshot wounds in the right upper part of the abdomen. He was rushed by some residents to Midsalip Infirmary Hospital for immediate medical treatment. He was later transferred to Zamboanga Del Sur Medical Center in Barangay Dao, Pagadian City.
One of the gunmen was later identified as Terso Beksala a.k.a. Diego, a resident of Barangay Lison Valley, Pagadian City and Mandao’s former companion when he was an active member of the communist group.
The Midsalip police launched hot pursuit operation in coordination with the military counterparts in the area for the possible arrest of the gunmen.
Suscano said the victim’s former comrades could have retaliated after leaving the group.
The military is now looking at the security of the other rebel returnees in the province after the incident.
