PNP probes shooting of Cagayan town mayor in campaign sortie

Philippine National Police headquarters in Camp Crame. File photo.

MANILA, Philippines — The Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) dedicated to investigating the death of reelectionist Mayor Joel Ruma of Rizal town in Cagayan province “is actively developing significant leads” connected to the case, according to the Philippine National Police (PNP).

The police force likewise assured the public that justice will be served on the killing of Ruma, who died in a gun attack while he was campaigning in Barangay Illuru Sur last April 23.

“We are working around the clock to uncover the truth, apprehend those responsible, and deliver justice to the family of Mayor Ruma and the people of Rizal, Cagayan. Rest assured that the PNP is exhausting all efforts to resolve this case swiftly and decisively,” PNP chief Gen. Rommel Marbil said in a statement on Monday.

READ: Cagayan town mayor shot dead during campaign sortie

“As of this moment, the SITG created by the PNP to probe the killing of Mayor Ruma is actively developing significant leads that may lead to a breakthrough in the investigation,” Marbil also revealed.

“However, in the interest of safeguarding the ongoing investigation and ensuring the success of subsequent operations, specific details cannot yet be disclosed prematurely to avoid preempting law enforcement actions,” he added.

The PNP chief likewise met with the personnel of Rizal Municipal Police Station and members of the SITG in a bid to expedite the case build-up.

He further ordered to intensify police visibility operations, especially in areas considered election hotspots, to ensure public safety.

“We call on the public to remain vigilant and cooperative and to immediately report any information that may aid in the swift resolution of the case, “ Marbil added.

Based on reports, Atty. Ruma was addressing his supporters at the barangay gymnasium when an unspecified number of armed men, using rifles and handguns, opened fire.

Ruma and two others were taken to the Tuao District Hospital in nearby Tuao town. The mayor died, while the two others remain in critical condition as of April 24.