Compostela rampage suspect tests positive of gunpowder burns

POLICE said the alleged gunman on the killing of a businessman and two allies of former Compostela mayor Richie Wagas in barangay Tamiao, Compostela town, northern Cebu, tested positive of gunpowder burns.

Basilides Ponce, who was pointed by witnesses as the gunman, underwent a paraffin test and results were released yesterday.

“Although the paraffin test results are not conclusive, this would be a big help with the investigation,” Investigator PO2 Arnie Goc-ong of the Compostela police told CDN in Cebuano.

Ponce, a former New People’s Army rebel who became an asset of the military, was arrested a few hours after the shooting incident last Apr. 23, which left three people dead and five others wounded.

Charges of illegal possession of firearms and murder were filed against Ponce, who denied wrongdoing.

The shooting rampage also killed Malou Mahinay, a barangay councilor; Jaime Pateno Jr.; and Marieto Yraola, husband of barangay captain Lilian Yraola.

The gunman fled to a waiting motorcycle after firing at random into the crowd of spectators watching a fiesta stage show./Reporter Rhea Ruth Rossel