The policeman who killed a civilian inside a bus and injured two other police officers at a checkpoint on December 28, 2024 has tested positive for illegal drug use.

According to the Police Regional Office-Davao (PRO-11), the suspect, Corporal Alfred Sabas, who was assigned at the Police Station 7 in General Santos City, was found positive for illegal drugs after the screening and confirmatory test conducted by the Regional Forensic Unit-11.

The policeman shot a security guard dead while the bus was moving in Barangay Batasan, Makilala, North Cotabato.

According to a barangay official in Batasan, Makilala, the suspect shot the victim who was about to pay his fare. The suspect allegedly thought the victim would pull out a gun.

He also shot two police officers manning a border checkpoint in Barangay New Opon, Magsaysay, Davao del Sur.

The suspect escaped but he was arrested during a hot pursuit.

PRO-11 said a case of double frustrated murder has been filed against Sabas in Digos City.

A separate complaint is set to be filed against the suspect in North Cotabato for the killing of the civilian.

AID

Meanwhile, the two police personnel who got wounded received 100,000 financial assistance each from PNP chief, Police General Rommel Marbil, and P50,000 each from PRO-11 Director, Brigadier General Leon Victor Rosete.

The two were also awarded with the Medalya ng Sugatang Magiting (PNP Wounded Medal) for their bravery and dedication to duty.

“This incident highlights the dedication and professionalism of our personnel in ensuring public safety. I also extend my deepest admiration for the two officers injured in the line of duty. Their courage and selflessness are truly inspiring,” Rosete said.

(With reports from Efren Mamac, GMA Regional TV One Mindanao)