THREE persons sustained wounds after a fight ensued between election rival groups in Barangay 23-C last Saturday, May 12.
Spokesperson of Davao City Police Office Maria Teresita Gaspan said the incident happened around 7:30 p.m. when they received reports of an alleged shooting incident that transpired at Purok 3 Zunta Isla Verde, Brgy. 23-C, Davao City.
Initial investigation revealed that around 7:00 p.m of May 12, in the same area, two groups of persons believed to be supporters of incumbent Barangay Chairman Alemudin Usman and Barangay Chairman Candidate Amil Bangsa Manding had a heated altercation that turned into a fistfight.
In the melee, shots rang out, injuring Alcon Ebrahim, Alibaser Cabuntalan, and Abdul Asis.
Ebrahim, a resident of Purok 2 Isla Verde, was just passing by when he sustained a lone gunshot wound on his right hand. Meanwhile, Cabuntalan who is believed to be a Manding supporter, sustained a gunshot wound on his left foot, while Asis, believed to be an Usman supporter, sustained a stab wound on his back.
Gaspan said all victims were declared in stable condition, while the police are conducting their investigation on the incident.
In an interview with Task Force Davao Commander Nolasco Memfin, he said that initial investigation revealed that they cannot identify who started the commotion as both camps are accusing one another.
Memfin said they are now increasing group visibility in 23-C to prevent the same kind of incident to happen.
Meanwhile, local authorities urged the two candidates in Barangay 23-C in Quezon Boulevard in Davao City to control their supporters so as to avoid any further incident or chaos in the area.
Commission on Elections (Comelec) in Davao Region assistant director Marlon Casquejo with Task Force (TF) Davao commander Nolasco Mempin and Sta. Ana police station head Chief Inspector Nolan Raquid held a meeting, Sunday, with Usman and Amil as represented by his younger brother Mashiu regarding the incident.
It was agreed upon by both parties that starting on May 13, Sunday, curfew shall be implemented starting at 10 p.m. and on May 14, Monday, supporters of the two candidates and voters are disallowed to carry bags in the polling area. (With reports from Mark Perandos)
