BACOLOD City – The New People’s Army (NPA) has claimed responsibility for the killing of a 64-year-old man in Barangay San Isidro, E.B. Magalona, Negros Occidental, saying the attack was carried out as a punitive action over the victim’s alleged involvement in past crimes.
In a statement, the Roselyn Jean Pelle Command said its members were behind the fatal shooting of Jerry Solinap on July 13 in Sitio Maabo, Barangay San Isidro.
Police earlier reported that Solinap sustained three gunshot wounds after he was allegedly attacked by more than five armed men.
The rebel group alleged that Solinap was responsible for the killing of a married couple in Sitio Trinity, Barangay Canlusong, E.B. Magalona, in 2004. It also accused him of involvement in cattle rustling and other criminal activities since 2007.
The NPA, however, did not present evidence to support its allegations, and authorities have yet to issue a statement on the group’s claims.
Solinap’s death is the latest in a series of attacks publicly claimed by the Roselyn Jean Pelle Command.
Earlier, the same rebel unit also claimed responsibility for the July 10 fatal shooting of Jerome Seballos and Alex Cunanan in Barangay Gawahon, Victorias City.
Police continue to investigate the killing./PN
