Man gunned down

CEBU, Philippines -  A 39-year-old man, who was allegedly involved in illegal drug activities, was shot dead by an unknown suspect near a computer shop in Barangay Calamba past midnight yesterday.

James Williard Tacoque was declared dead when he arrived at the Cebu City Medical Center.

Investigation revealed Tacoque was seen playing on a bingo machine prior to the incident.

As soon as he got out of the shop, a lone gunman approached him while he was standing next to the shop. Minutes later, he was shot by the suspect using an undetermined caliber of firearm.

Senior Police Officer 4 Alex Dacua, homicide investigator, said they will conduct a background check on the victim to possibly identify the gunman.

Dacua said Tacoque was allegedly involved in illegal drugs trade in Sitio Mahayahay, Barangay Calamba.

Genevieve, the victim's sister, told investigators she had no knowledge his brother had enemies. But she said she could hear him talking to someone on the phone sometimes and that it would usually end in an argument.

"Usahay naay manawag niya nga akong duda lalaki nga mura sila og nag-ilog og babaye," she said.

The victim had a previous live-in partner in Barangay Pasil but they broke up few months ago.

Dacua said they will investigate on the victim's alleged involvement in the illegal drugs trade.

The motive of the crime has yet to be known.  (FREEMAN)