Police shot a security guard inside a bus; and shot two other police at a checkpoint

DAVAO CITY — Police Corporal Alfrad Dawatan Sabas was riding a Mindanao Star bus heading towards Digos City at around 2:30 a.m. on Friday, December 28, 2024.

While the bus was traveling along the national highway in Barangay Batasan, Makilala, North Cotabato, gunfire suddenly erupted inside the vehicle.

A security guard, identified as Reynaldo Bigno Jr., a resident of Barangay Batasan, was struck in the head by a bullet and died instantly. The motive for the shooting remains unclear. The bus continued its journey despite the incident, carrying shocked passengers and the armed Sabas.

Upon reaching a Philippine National Police (PNP) checkpoint in Barangay Kinuskusan, Bansalan, Davao del Sur, Sabas reportedly sought assistance from a friend. For reasons yet to be determined, Sabas then opened fire on two police officers manning the checkpoint.

The officers, identified as Police Corporal Kenth Maurith Ramos and Patrolman Russel Love Tapia, sustained gunshot wounds. Both were rushed to a nearby hospital and are currently undergoing medical treatment.

After firing at the checkpoint, Sabas attempted to flee. Responding police officers quickly pursued and apprehended him, preventing further violence. Sabas is now in police custody, and an investigation is underway to uncover the motives behind the shootings and the sequence of events.

Authorities are piecing together the circumstances surrounding the incidents, including the initial altercation on the bus and the subsequent shooting at the checkpoint. The PNP has assured the public of a thorough investigation to provide justice for the victims and clarity on the case.