On-duty guard shoots fellow security officer in Iloilo

By Jennifer P. Rendon

A security guard was wounded after being shot by a fellow guard on the morning of Jan. 5 in Barangay San Agustin, City Proper, Iloilo City.

Police identified the victim only as alias Ben, 26, a resident of Barangay Agdahon, Passi City, and an employee of KML Security Agency. He was assigned to the SMDI-Suzuki branch in the Jaro district.

The suspect, identified as alias Regimar, 28, of Barangay Mabini, Tapaz, Capiz, was assigned to the same security agency’s branch at SMDI-Suzuki along Delgado Street in City Proper, where the incident occurred at around 9:15 a.m.

Before the shooting, the victim reportedly arrived at the site to give money to another guard named Jason.

According to Corporal Joseph Nathaniel Domingo, investigator of the Iloilo City Police Station 1 (ICPS1), the suspect motioned for the victim to approach him.

When the victim came within arm’s reach, Regimar allegedly attempted to punch him, but Ben managed to block the blow.

A scuffle ensued between the two guards until the suspect drew his issued firearm and shot the victim twice, hitting him in both thighs.

However, Rochelle Anatan, SMDI-Suzuki Delgado branch manager, offered a different account. Anatan said it was the victim who first motioned for the suspect to approach.

According to her, Ben then punched Regimar, who retaliated by pulling out his firearm and shooting him.

Anatan also noted that Ben previously served as a relief guard at the establishment.

Police said the shooting may have been triggered by old grudges between the two, but did not elaborate.

The victim was rushed to Iloilo Doctors’ Hospital for treatment, while the suspect was immediately arrested.

Recovered from the crime scene was an Armscor caliber .9mm pistol (serial number RIA2269452) with a magazine loaded with three rounds of ammunition.

The suspect is currently detained at the ICPS1 custodial facility pending the filing of charges.