2 dead in shooting incident in Maguindanao del Norte on BSKE 2023

Two people were killed and at least four others were wounded in a shooting incident in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte on Monday, shortly before voting for the Barangay and Sangguniang Elections (BSKE) 2023 was to start.

According to a police report, the shooting happened at around 6 a.m. along the Cotabato-Shariff Aguak Road, particularly in the vicinity of Barangay Bugawas.

The fatalities, identified as Juhaimin Ube, and an alias "Mistake,” were found dead lying on the road with multiple gunshot wounds.

At least four others were wounded, namely: Mohalidin Solaiman, Jerik Alon, Nasrudin Salik, and Harong Tating.

Police said those injured were brought to the Dinaig District Hospital for medical attention.

Police have identified two gunmen — Romar Abas alias “Mok” and Keds Lidasan alias “Keds” — as well as their two cohorts Michael Abas and Teng Kapaya. Other suspects have yet to be determined.

Authorities are now conducting hot pursuit operations against the perpetrators.

On Saturday or two days before the October 30 BSKE, two separate fire incidents occurred in schools in Maguindanao which would be used as polling places.

Comelec chairman George Garcia said Sunday that arson was the cause of fire in schools in Barangay Ruminimbang, Barira in Maguindanao del Norte; and Barangay Poblacion, Dalican, Datu Odin Sinsuat in Maguindanao del Sur. —KG, GMA Integrated News