Man Killed, Friend Escapes in Negros Occidental Abduction

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY – Police are investigating the killing of a 23-year-old man in Sitio Km. 113, Barangay Dancalan, Ilog, Negros Occidental, on Tuesday afternoon after he and his 24-year-old friend were abducted earlier that day in Barangay Binicuil, Kabankalan City.

The fatality was identified only as “Kurt,” a resident of the province.

Police Maj. Randy Babor, Ilog police chief, said Kurt and his friend “Mik” had taken a bus to Kabankalan City to play billiards.

Upon arriving in the area, the two were allegedly seized by unidentified armed men and forced into a white van.

According to the account of the survivor, both victims were hogtied and had their faces covered with cloth.

Upon reaching Ilog town, the armed men allegedly shot Kurt in the head, killing him instantly.

Mik escaped by running from the suspects and seeking help from nearby residents.

Babor said Mik suffered only minor scratches and did not sustain any gunshot wounds.

He added that authorities believe the suspects were hired by an unidentified mastermind.

Police are still investigating the motive behind the incident.

Babor said initial leads point to a personal grudge, but other angles are also being explored.

The families of both victims have contacted the police to provide information that could help in the case.

Police have coordinated with other law enforcement units to expedite the investigation.