Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 25) – A Philippine National Police (PNP) investigation unit has launched a manhunt operation to capture the gunmen in the ambush of the mayor of Datu Montawal municipality in Maguindanao Del Sur, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) said Saturday.
Mayor Ohto Caumbo Montawal was traveling along Roxas Boulevard in Pasay City on Wednesday when two unidentified men approached his vehicle. One of them pulled out a gun and opened fire, hitting Montawal in the left arm and hip.
READ: Maguindanao municipal mayor wounded in shooting
“Nakatutok ngayon ang Philippine National Police (PNP) Station Special Investigation Team o SSIT ‘Montawal’ upang tugisin ang mga salaring responsable sa pananambang at alamin ang posibleng motibo ng mga suspek,” Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos said.
“Ilang testigo na ang lumutang upang ilahad ang kanilang nasaksihan,” he added
[Translation: The PNP SSIT Montawal is now focused on going after those responsible for the ambush and finding out their motives. Several witnesses have already come forward.]
Abalos said that Montawal was in the hospital and in good condition.
