BY MA. THERESA LADIAO
ILOILO – A couple was shot dead in Barangay Lantangan, Carles, Iloilo around 11 a.m. yesterday, October 16.
Carles police identified the victims as aliases “Violeta” and “Hesus.”
In an interview with Panay News, Major Sonny Boy Garnace said that the suspect was seen carrying a sack, which was believed to have concealed the firearm used in the attack.
After the shooting, the suspect reportedly fled aboard a motor banca, heading towards coastal municipalities, particularly Ajuy and Estancia, Garnace added.
Barangay Lantangan is one of the two barangays located on Gigantes Sur Island. The island is accessible by motor banca, with the journey taking about an hour from the mainland of Carles, depending on sea conditions.
The police immediately launched a hot pursuit operation and sought assistance from nearby police stations.
The suspect, identified as 31-year-old Wenrey Belasa, a resident of Barangay Bayuyan, Estancia, was arrested at around 1:30 p.m. yesterday in Barangay Botongon, also in Estancia.
The suspect is now under police custody. He will face charges related to the crime.
Carles police meanwhile were still investigating the motive of the killing as of this writing./PN
