A major homicide occurred in Cagayan City, northern Philippines, amid the heated election campaign: Incumbent mayoral candidate Joel Ruma was fatally shot by a sniper on the evening of April 23, causing a national uproar. The police initially suspect a professional sniper was involved.
Colonel Randolf Tuaniño, the director of public information at the Philippine National Police (PNP), held a press conference on Thursday to report on the case.
According to preliminary investigations by the police, the incident occurred around 9:30 PM at a re-election rally in Cagayan City. Mayor Ruma was delivering a speech when he was suddenly struck by a long-range bullet that penetrated his right shoulder and chest cavity. Despite emergency medical treatment, he succumbed to his injuries.
"Only one gunshot was heard at the scene. The shooting was precise and covert, very likely a sniper operation," pointed out Tuaniño, adding that a 5.56 mm cartridge case, suspected to be from a sniper rifle, was found nearby.
Investigators are also examining the use of firearms by the mayor's security detail, as three bystanders were injured in the incident besides the mayor's death. Four security personnel have been detained by the police for questioning and ballistic analysis to determine if there was any accidental shooting of civilians.
"We are conducting a comprehensive investigation and not ruling out any possibilities, including whether it was a political assassination or accidental harm," emphasized Tuaniño.
Hours after the incident, the police set up temporary checkpoints at major exits and arrested a suspicious man on a road section. His identity has not yet been disclosed, but the police are intensively questioning him regarding his possible connection to the case.
The shooting has caused significant concern among the political and civilian communities in Cagayan City. Mayor Ruma had announced his intention to seek re-election, and his death has suddenly tensed the local political atmosphere. Law enforcement agencies have stated that they will thoroughly investigate to uncover the mastermind behind the incident, ensuring that the truth is revealed and justice is served for Ruma's family and the citizens.
