ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – Charges have been filed against suspected sea pirates who killed eight fishermen off Siromon Island last week.
Chief Superintendent Billy Beltran, Zamboanga peninsula police director, said yesterday they filed charges of multiple murder, robbery and extortion against nine persons.
Beltran said among those charged were two suspects who were recently arrested.
Seven fishermen who survived the attack said they were on a fishing trip from Sibugtoc Island when the gunmen on two speedboats boarded their vessel and opened fire.
The fishing boat, F/B NR, sank after it was riddled with bullets.
A passing motorboat rescued some of the fishermen while others were found on a nearby island.
Police said fishermen were found hogtied and their bodies bore multiple gunshot wounds.