Politics eyed in Zamboanga del Norte vice mayor’s slay
ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — Police are eyeing politics or business rivalry as the motive in the killing of Vice Mayor Gani Esmali of Baliguian, Zamboanga del Norte in Siocon on Saturday.
Probers said Esmali, who was on his third term, was reportedly a strong contender in the mayoral race being a former mayor.
“Known as a political kingpin in his area, he received threats since 2017 until last year,” Maj. Edison Alviar, Siocon police acting chief, said.
Esmali and his escorts Pat. Godelito Bongcac and Jaymalin Tunggal were waylaid in Sitio Barazon, Barangay Sta. Maria before noon.
Their companion Abdulajid Bairula was wounded and remains confined in a hospital.
“We have some persons of interest who could shed light on the ambush and killing of the vice mayor and his companions,” Alviar said, but did not give details.
He said the gunmen were believed to be members of an armed group.
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