2 killed, 1 hurt as cop opens fire inside videoke bar in Cotabato

Inquirer files

KABACAN, COTABATO, Philippines — Two drivers were shot dead while their companion was wounded after a police officer opened fire while they were on a drinking spree along the national highway in Kabacan town, Cotabato province on Saturday.

The incident happened in Osias villages at around 1 a.m.

Major Maxim Peralta, Kabacan police chief, identified the victims as Akmad Ali Salimula, 40, and Mama Sandigan, 40, both of Central Malamote in nearby Matalam town. Both are bus drivers.

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Their companion, Norhan Katom Makakua, 25, a bus conductor, is still undergoing treatment in a local hospital after he survived the shooting incident.

The suspect is Police Captain Romel Magdato Guhiling, 47, of Midsayap town. Peralta told the Inquirer that Guhiling is his deputy.

“All of the victims were inside a videoke bar together with the suspect who was seated at the next table. According to the witness, an altercation suddenly happened until Guhiling shot them,” Peralta said.

The police probers are yet to determine the cause of the heated argument.

“The police-suspect was alone in the bar when the incident happened,” Peralta added.

Some 12 cartridges of a 9mm pistol were recovered at the crime scene.

The suspect voluntarily surrendered to the authorities, including turning over his issued firearm. He is now detained at the custodial facility of the Kabacan police station.