By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The Sagay City Police Station is now finalizing their investigation into the recent shooting incident that claimed the lives of nine National Federation of Sugar Workers (NFSW) farmers.

In a radio interview yesterday morning, Sagay City police chief, Police Chief Inspector Robert Mansueto, said they have already taken sworn statements of at least 14 witnesses.

The city police official said they are trying to complete the investigation quickly in order to file cases against the suspects at the soonest possible time.

He also affirmed an earlier statement made by Police Regional Office-6 (PRO-6) director, Police Chief Superintendent John Bulalacao, claiming one of the suspects was already identified and they are presently looking for conclusive evidence against the individual.

Mansueto also declined to reveal the name of the suspect.

Meanwhile, he also confirmed a 13-year-old witness has been placed under the protection of the city’s social welfare and development office as his statement proved to be very crucial towards a solution to the case.

The boy is also being treated for trauma.

Last Sunday, gunmen opened fire on a tent, claiming the lives of the farmers.

Police recovered 12 empty 5.56 caliber cartridges, seven empty .45 caliber cartridges, and one empty .38 caliber cartridge from the crime scene./DGB, WDJ