Suspected bomb expert shot dead

MANILA, Philippines - A suspected bomb expert, who was linked to kidnappings in Cotabato, was shot dead in the city over the weekend.

Reports reaching Camp Crame showed the fatality Samer Bansil, 26, of Sitio Pagalungan, Lugay-lugay, Mother Barangay Bagua, Cotabato, was shot at close range by a certain Dadsal.

Police said the shooting took place near Bansil’s house on Saturday.

Responding police operatives immediately conducted hot pursuit operation for the possible arrest of the suspect but failed.

Initial investigation conducted revealed that the victim was on his way home from a nearby mosque when the suspect came from behind and shot the victim at gunpoint.

Police recovered from the crime scene one empty shell for .45 caliber and one empty shell for .30 caliber carbine rifle believed used by the perpetrators.

Records check conducted revealed that Bansil was a member of the Saudi Kasan kidnapping for ransom group involved in the foiled kidnapping of Indian national Manohar Khemani on June 10, in front of Sardonyx Plaza Restaurant along Gov. Guttierez Ave., Barangay Rosary Heights 7, Cotabato City.

During said incident, the supposed abduction of Khemani was prevented by a shootout between police security escort of Judge Banzawan Ibrahim of RTC Br 13, Cotabato City and the kidnappers.

In the incident, Khemani’s driver, Christopher Aracena, sustained serious gunshot wounds in his face while the suspects escaped on board a red KIA Pride bearing plate number LFV 723.

Intelligence operatives of Cotabato City Police Office also revealed that Bansil, believed to be a bomb expert, was actively involved in several bombing incidents in Central Mindanao to include the recent July 5, IED explosion in Cotabato City.   – Cecille Suerte Felipe