AN explosion rocked Lamitan City in Basilan on Tuesday night. (Photo via Liza Jocson)
ZAMBOANGA CITY – A laborer was injured in an explosion in a newly constructed fast food chain outlet in Lamitan City, Basilan on Tuesday evening, March 3.
Police identified the victim as Rebel Antalas Masulog, 22, of Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur.
A witness told police that he heard a loud explosion some 10 meters away from his location. He said he was unable to see the persons responsible for the explosion.
Other witnesses told police that two persons onboard a motorcycle approached the building and lobbed an explosive at the entrance before escaping.
A glass wall on the building was shattered and a concrete wall sustained holes from shrapnels.
Police are reviewing surveillance footages in the area to identify the perpetrators. Early closed circuit-television footages showed a man on a motorcycle fleeing the crime scene.
The fast food outlet was targeted four days before its grand opening on March 7.
Lamitan City Mayor Roderick Furigay condemned the attack and described it as a cowardly act.
Hot pursuit operations are being conducted against the suspects.
The victim was taken to a hospital and in stable condition.