Reward to Resolve Case of Cop Slain in ‘Rido’ Settlement
Reward to Resolve Case of Cop Slain in ‘Rido’ Settlement. The Philippine National Police (PNP) is hopeful that a reward will help bring the perpetrators of the recent murder of a police officer to justice. The officer, assigned as a security escort to a mayor in Maguindanao del Norte, was killed during a settlement of a “rido” (family feud).
Details of the Incident
On January 2, 39-year-old Staff Sgt. Zahraman Diocolano of the Maguindanao Norte Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC) was shot dead outside a family gathering at the home of former Representative Ronnie Sinsuat in Cotabato City. The gathering aimed to resolve a family feud involving Datu Odin Sinsuat Mayor Lester Sinsuat and his late uncle’s family.
PNP Response and Manhunt
PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo, in a press briefing at Camp Crame, announced that a manhunt is underway to apprehend the suspects involved in Diocolano’s murder. The PNP is calling on the public to come forward with any information, assuring that informants’ identities will be kept confidential.
“We will make sure that your identity will remain confidential and this reward would really help us solve this crime. It’s not all about the money but more than that, it’s about the public’s concern and their humane act of helping us give justice to the victims,” Fajardo emphasized.
Reward and Suspects
The victim’s family has offered a PHP500,000 bounty for information leading to the arrest of Ansawi Limbona, also known as ‘Jojo’, the alleged mastermind behind the crime. Limbona has a standing arrest warrant issued on May 6. Besides Limbona, two other unidentified suspects are still at large.
Initial Arrests
Police and Philippine Marines initially arrested four individuals, including Army Private 1st Class John Carlo Nocum, a member of the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion, and three other suspects. The investigation continues as authorities strive to bring all involved to justice.
Mayor Sinsuat Statement
In a phone interview, Mayor Lester Sinsuat assured that he is safe but remains vigilant. He expressed his satisfaction with the PNP’s efforts but called for increased security measures and the deployment of capable officials and personnel in their town.
“Kuntento tayo sa paghahanap ng PNP. Gayunpaman inuulit ko ang aking panawagan na paigtingin pa nila ang seguridad sa aming bayan at magtalaga ng mga karapat dapat na opisyal at personnel (We are contented with the PNP’s pursuit. However, I am reiterating my call for them to beef up security in our town and deploy deserving officials and personnel),” Sinsuat reiterated.
Conclusion
The PNP’s commitment to solving the murder of Staff Sgt. Zahraman Diocolano reflects their dedication to justice and public safety. The reward is a significant step towards encouraging the public to assist in bringing the criminals to justice, ultimately fostering a safer community.