Probers to query jeepney drivers on shooting of traffic policeman

Investigators on the shooting and wounding of traffic policeman PO3 Allan Magalso have planned to invite for questioning some drivers of public utility jeepneys taking the Mandaue-Cebu City route.

Cebu City Police director, Supt. Melvin Gayotin, said investigators led by Supt. Pablo Labra II had told him that one of the possible motives being looked into might have links to Magalso's job as a traffic enforcer.

Whatever information the PUJ drivers would provide to investigators would help in resolving the case and, perhaps, in pinpointing the gunman and the motive in trying to kill Magalso, said Gayotin.

Magalso has been known as "very diligent" in apprehending violators of the City Ordinance banning PUJs from entering Cebu City's streets. Last week, he joined a chase of a PUJ that escaped from apprehending traffic policemen, and he drove his motorcycle to block the path of the PUJ.

Gayotin admitted that the investigation is still unclear at this time due to several possibilities surrounding the incident. "Daghan pa kaayo kita nga anggulo nga gitan-aw karon bahin sa maong hitabo. Gipaningkamutan nato nga mahatagan ug kasulbaran," he said.

An unidentified man shot Magalso in the back in barangay Labangon Tuesday evening.

Magalso had just arrested two men for traffic violation and while he was issuing citation tickets to the violators, a hooded man arrived on a red motorcycle a few meters from Magalso.

The man posted himself on a poorly lit part of the street behind Magalso and shot the policeman once. Magalso was hit in his back with the bullet penetrating his abdomen. He survived the shooting and is now recuperating at a private hospital. - Jose P. Sollano<