Rebel returnee killed by NPA in Occidental Mindoro

A rebel returnee was shot dead allegedly by a suspected member of the New People’s Army (NPA) inside a church in Abra de Ilog, Occidental Mindoro over the weekend. The victim was identified as Richard Perlado, 27, married, resident of Barangay Cabacao, Abra de Ilog, Occidental Mindoro.

Witnesses identified the gunmen as a certain Noel dela Cruz, alias Ka Ronel, vice team leader of the Sandatahang Yunit Propaganda (SYP) and a certain Jeremy-Waray. The gunmen were armed with .45 caliber and 9mm pistols.

Police said the murder took place at around 12 noon last Sunday inside The First Uniting Christian Church Mission in Sitio Rayusan, Bgy. Armado, Abra De Ilog, Occidental Mindoro.

Witnesses said the victim was attending a ceremony at the church when the two gunmen arrived and without any word shot the victim repeatedly.

Investigators said the victim sustained multiple gunshot wounds in the different parts of head and body. The victim was brought to the Provincial District Hospital in Mamburao for autopsy.

Police are conducting hot pursuit against the gunmen.