By JEN BAYLON

The Negros Occidental Provincial Police Office (NOCPPO) has established a Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) to conduct a focused and expedited investigation into the shooting incident in Silay City’s Barangay Mambulac on election day, May 12.

The SITG aims to strengthen the investigative process by coordinating witness affidavits, gathering statements, and ensuring swift justice for the victims.

The team is composed of personnel from the Silay City police, Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, Scene of the Crime Operatives, Highway Patrol Group, and other police support units.

The shooting left two people dead and seven others wounded, sparking immediate law enforcement action.

One of the primary persons of interest is Barangay Lantad chief Arnie Benedicto, who voluntarily surrendered to authorities shortly after the incident.

Benedicto is currently in police custody.

He has denied involvement and expressed willingness to undergo paraffin testing to prove his innocence, police said.

The Silay City Prosecutors’ Office has filed murder and frustrated murder charges against Benedicto and three others allegedly involved in the incident.

Earlier, Police Major General Arnold Thomas Ibay, Regional Director of the Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region, condemned the violent act and assured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to apprehend those responsible.

A manhunt operation is ongoing, with checkpoints established across Silay and neighboring towns to aid in the capture of suspects.

Authorities continue to appeal to the public for cooperation and any information that may help resolve the case swiftly, underscoring the importance of maintaining peace and order during the election period./JB, WDJ