Chan dangles P1 million reward to solve councilman’s killing

CEBU, Philippines —  Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Junard "Ahong" Chan is dangling a P1-million reward to anyone who can point to those who are behind the killing of a barangay councilor last Saturday night.

As this developed, the police are looking into business and job-related motives behind the murder of Mactan barangay councilor Zandro Labie Augusto, 48, who was shot by unidentified riding-in-tandem along Lopez Jaena corner Bonifacio Street, in Barangay Poblacion.

Chan said Augusto's murder is the first heinous crime under his watch as the city mayor.

Chan added he could not forget Augusto's hard work and sacrifices as a public servant, especially during the pandemic.

The mayor added that he condemn Augusto's killing and that he will ensure that those who are responsible will be held accountable for the crime.

Chan added that those who have a lead may contact 09989673794 or 09393711288.

Police Major Angel Acupinpin, Lapu-Lapu City Police Office (LLCPO)'s Station 3 chief, said they are now continuously reviewing the CCTV cameras around the area where the incident happened to get any possible leads to identify the unknown perpetrators.

"Sa karon pag-interview nato sa mga kaila niya, sa mga constituents didto, wala man kuno silay nahibaw-an nga nakontrahan aning tawhana kay maayong tawo man kuno ni.  Gani diha sa iyang mga kaubang mga negosyante diha sa merkado giingon nga manggihatagon kaayo daw ni siya. Mao tong natingala sila nganong nahitabo pud to niya," said Acupinpin.

The family has also told authorities that they don't have any idea if the councilor received any threats prior to his death.

Acupinpin added they are now looking into the two persons who were allegedly seen by witnesses who boarded a motorcycle after shooting the councilor.

Augusto was about to board his vehicle when the unidentified perpetrators shot him. The suspects immediately fled.

"Tanang anggulo atong ginatan-aw kung unsa gyud ang motive.  Wala pa gyud hinuon nato matan-aw kung purely business-related or sa iyang trabaho," said Acupinpin.

Augusto sustained a gunshot wound to his lower left chest, while four empty shells of a .45 caliber pistol were found at the crime scene. — GAN (FREEMAN)