ZAMBOANGA CITY: Rido or clan conflict is emerging as the possible motive that triggered the killing of 23 people in Talipao, Sulu last Monday, a security official revealed yesterday.
The security official based in Sulu said their initial findings indicate clan feud as the motive in the ambush.
A total of 23 civilians were killed and eight others wounded when unidentified gunmen opened fire at their vehicles on their way to celebrate Eid Al Fitr. Most of the victims were women and children.
Authorities initially suspected the Abu Sayyaf bandits led by Iddang Susukan and Pisih Sibih staged the ambush.
The security official, however, pointed out the manner of killing the helpless civilians.
“The way perpetrators killed their victims showed deep rage and it appears it was not just mere ambush, because no one was spared, including those innocent children,” the official said.
Investigators have gathered 20 statements of witnesses in identifying the gunmen.
Armed Forces chief General Pio Catapang Jr said security forces have been deployed in Talipao to maintain peace and order in the town.
The military and police forces have intensified the security in the area to avert possible retaliation by surviving families of the victims. Reports said the survivors positively identified some of the gunmen in the attack.
The Philippine star
