Grenade-thrower blasted to death

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines -  An unidentified suspect was blasted to death when the grenade he lobbed exploded in his hand in a district of Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur, according to police Monday.

Police Supt. Julius Muñez, Pagadian police chief said the victim had his right arm severed and was beyond recognition due to the blast Saturday dawn in San Jose Village.

Muñez said the victim has remained unidentified up to this date as no one has claimed his remains. Residents also do not know who the victim was.

Other residents living nearby the explosion site in Bonifacio Street disclosed they heard motorcycles speeding away moments after the explosion.

Police believed that the grenade might have exploded in the hand of the victim while preparing to lob it into the intended target.

The police authorities were also looking if the incident was related to the investment scam  of Aman Futures Group Phils. Inc. Victims who were duped in the scam are  reportedly seeking revenge against the investment firm's agents.

Pagadian City Mayor Samuel Co earlier admitted that tension lingers in the area with some of his village leaders going into hiding owing to threats.  Pagadian City Mayor Samuel Co earlier admitted that tension continued with some of his village leaders have gone into hiding due to threats.