ILOILO — Investigators are closing in on the gunman in the killing of a lending company manager in Dueñas town, following the arrest of the alleged getaway driver in Passi City on Wednesday afternoon, Nov. 4.
The 50-year-old suspect, identified only as alias “Bongbong,” was arrested at his residence in Barangay Sablogon, Passi City at around 5:55 p.m. during a hot pursuit operation conducted by the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO).
Police tagged Bongbong as the alleged driver of the motorcycle used by the gunman in the fatal shooting of lending company manager alias “Roy” in Barangay Ponong Grande, Dueñas on Wednesday morning.
Dueñas Municipal Police Station chief Capt. Isagani Tabares said investigators traced the suspect through police backtracking operations and witness identification.
One witness reportedly identified Bongbong as the motorcycle driver, while another witness surfaced after his arrest and independently pointed to him as the person who drove the vehicle.
Tabares said the suspect did not resist arrest or attempt to escape during the operation. However, Bongbong denied any personal acquaintance with the victim.
Police records also showed that the suspect had previous cases involving violations of the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act, qualified theft, illegal possession of firearms and possession of an explosive device.
Meanwhile, authorities continue their follow-up investigation to establish the identity and whereabouts of the alleged gunman, who remained at large.
Tabares appealed to the public to immediately coordinate with police if they have information that could help locate the remaining suspect.
He also urged the gunman to surrender and face the appropriate charges.
Police have yet to disclose further details on the motive behind the killing as the investigation continues./PN
