A former Revolutionary Proletarian Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPA-ABB) official was shot dead yesterday morning by motorcycle-riding gunmen in Talisay City’s Barangay E. Lizares. Police identified the fatality as 44-year-old Jicky ‘Ka Maitan’ Casipe, a resident of the city’s Barangay Dos Hermanas.
Talisay City police lead investigator, Police Master Sergeant Rihael Trujillo, said, based on their initial probe, Casipe was riding his motorcycle towards city proper when he was reportedly shot by four to five gunmen aboard two separate motorcycles. The police official said, as of press time, he cannot confirm the number of shot wounds Casipe sustained but noted the victim was shot in the head.
The investigator also believes the victim was likely still operating his motorcycle when he was attacked and fell into a ditch.
Cops also recovered five empty .45 caliber shells in the crime scene.
In addition, the victim was said to be carrying a firearm and a sling bag at the time of the incident. Police believe the assailants may have taken the items.
The victim’s family, meanwhile, refused to be interviewed. However, a relative, identified by the name “Amay,” informed members of the media that Casipe was a New People’s Army member before switching to the RPA-ABB. He then reportedly became a commander of the group.
The family member also said Casipe was one of 3,000 RPA-ABB members who went to Jamindan, Capiz and participated in a surrender ceremony last month.
Police are still investigating the murder./DGB, WDJ