ILOILO CITY – Police are hunting a barangay councilor here for fatally stabbing a delivery boy on Thursday evening, May 7.
The Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) identified the suspect as Melvin Acebuque, councilor of Barangay Santa Filomena in Arevalo District.
Initial investigation led by Police Capt. Michael Tuburan, ICPO Station 6 chief, disclosed that Acebuque accused the victim, John Robert Sayno, 29 of stealing money from him. The amount and when the incident happened were not disclosed.
A heated argument ensued, during which the suspect got a knife and stabbed the victim. Witnesses did not intervene for fear that Acebuque would also stab them.
The 48-year-old suspect and his companion, Mark Anthony Banares, escaped and is now the subject of a manhunt.
Iloilo City police chief Police Col. Wilbert B. Parilla urged the suspects to surrender and face the consequences of their actions.
“ICPO assures their safety and guarantees fair treatment in relation to the incident,” Parilla said. “ICPO reiterates its stand that no one is above the law and reminds everyone that irresponsible actions carry corresponding liabilities,” Parilla added.
Sayno worked for Acebuque’s various businesses, including lending.