Drug angle eyed in Carreta shooting

CEBU, Philippines — The Cebu City Police Office has dismissed the alleged involvement of gang members in the killing of a certain Leonilo Navarosa in Barangay Carreta last Friday.

CCPO director Joel Doria said the victim and the suspects were entangled in a drug-related conflict. Homicide investigators have identified five of the six assailants as Jay Pikot, Macmac, Joseph, Niño, and Jimmy.

Pikot was allegedly the gunman while the others served as backup and lookouts. Doria said they are still conducted further investigation to determine Navarosa’s role in the illegal drug trade.

 “Nagkaonsehan sila, kaya ayon napatay ang biktima,” Doria said.

The victim succumbed to three gunshot wounds to his abdomen and legs. The police said it is only a matter of time that they will be able to arrest the suspects, who are residents of Villagonzalo, Cebu City.

 “Actually meron na tayong suspect nahinahanap ngayon, and it’s just a matter of time para mahanap natin sila ngayon.”  Doria said.

 Meanwhile, a 56-year-old motorcycle-for-hire driver identified was shot dead Sunday evening in Barangay Labangon, Cebu City. The victim was identified as Ben Rubin Arabis, resident of the same barangay.

Initial investigations revealed that the victim was waiting for passengers when he was shot by unidentified assailant.

Crime Scene Investigation Unit recovered two empty shells for caliber .45 rounds and at least P3,000 worth of cash. SPO4 Alex Dacua, deputy chief of the Homicide section, said they are looking at illegal drugs as possible motive.

Doria has ordered to keep a closer look at the area where the shooting happened because it is considered a hot spot.

“Ang problema lang, ang karamihan ng suspect nag monitor at pag walang pulis they do it,” Doria said. (FREEMAN)