Ex-convict shot dead

CEBU, Philippines - An ex-convict believed to have been involved in the illegal drug trade was shot dead Tuesday evening in Barangay Poblacion Oriental, Consolacion.

Marianito Niez Lagahit, resident of the said barangay, succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds in the different parts of his body. He died minutes after he was taken to the Chong Hua Hospital.

Consolacion police investigator, SPO3 Roy Susvilla, said the victim is a known drug personality in the town. In fact, he was on the list of drug personalities monitored by them.

Susvilla believes that the shooting incident was related to the victim’s involvement in the illegal drugs.

Initial investigation shows that Lagahit was about to go to the supermarket when the unidentified gunman shot him.

Susvilla said that minutes before the shooting incident the victim told his companion, a certain Marlon, that Joel Perez will arrive anytime bringing what they called as “bomba”. The police believe that the term “bomba” refers to illegal drugs.

Lagahit was shot in front of his niece who went to see him to solicit for their chapel’s fiesta on June 9. Lagahit was hit on the chest during the first round of gunfire but was able to run, supposedly to seek cover. However, the unidentified assailant shot him again in the back.

Police investigators recovered four empty shells, two deformed slugs and two fired slugs of .45 caliber pistol.

Consolacion police chief Wilbert Parilla said they are currently investigating another suspected drug pusher who may be responsible for the crime.

Lagahit was jailed twice already after he was convicted for illegal drugs. He was released from jail last year.

Parilla added that Lagahit is currently out on bail after he was also arrested by the Provincial Intelligence Branch recently for illegal possession of firearms.— (FREEMAN)