Taxi driver shot to death in Sibonga

CEBU, Philippines - A taxi driver was shot dead by two motorcycle-riding men in Barangay Candaguit, Sibonga, Cebu on Tuesday.

Christopher John Espinosa, 39, of Barangay Bulasa, Argao, Cebu, died immediately due to multiple gunshot wounds.

A pack of marijuana sticks was found in the victim’s possession, which the police are looking into as possible lead in the shooting.

Initial investigation revealed that Espinosa, who drives a taxicab in Cebu City, was driving a black RUSI motorcycle from Carcar City towards home in Argao when upon reaching Sibonga, two men who were riding in tandem on a Honda XRM motorcycle appeared from behind.

The backrider suddenly drew out a handgun and shot Espinosa several times, hitting him in the head and stomach.

The victim was rushed to Carcar Provincial Hospital but was declared dead on arrival.

Responding policemen searched the victim’s body for possible identification when they found a marijuana stick and a cigarette pack containing several sticks of marijuana and other personal belongings from his possession.

Police Officer 2 Ederlino Bacusmo of Sibonga Police Station said they are looking into the possibility that Espinosa was a frequent buyer of marijuana in Carcar and might have encountered trouble with residents of the place.

“Nakakita siguro na siya’g engkwentro didto unya gisundan siya pag-uli unya nakakitag higayon. Pag-abot sa Sibonga, gipusil,” said Bacusmo.

A child of Espinosa told the police that they do not know any persons in their place who might have a grudge with the victim.

The victim allegedly frequented Carcar City, but did not tell his family about his activities there.

The police are now tracing the source of the marijuana for further investigation. (FREEMAN)