THREE people were killed in separate incidents in Lanao del Sur on Monday, election day, according to the Lanao del Sur Provincial Police Office (LDSPPO).
At around 7 am, a stabbing incident was reported in Madaya, Maguing. Arafat Iskak, a resident of Sitio Proper, Makabuak, Pikit, Cotabato, was stabbed to death outside the municipal hall, police said.
Police Maj. Salahuddin Basher, provincial police information officer, said Iskak sustained seven stab wounds and died at the scene.
According to Basher, the incident followed a heated exchange between supporters of mayoral candidates in Maguing that escalated into violence.
In a separate incident in the municipality of Bayang, a councilor candidate under the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP) was shot dead along with another man.
The victims were identified as Afgani Taha Balt, 38, the councilor candidate, and Walid Balt, 35. Both were residents of Barangay Sumbag, Bayang.
The two were shot by unidentified gunmen who fled in an unknown direction after the attack.
As of press time, the LDSPPO said it is still investigating the three incidents and conducting a manhunt for the suspects. Authorities have yet to confirm whether the killings were election-related.
