TACLOBAN CITY – The Leyte Police Provincial Office (LPPO), formally filed criminal cases against 7 Police Officers allegedly persons of interest in Albuera Mayoral candidate Kerwin Espinosa shooting in Brgy. Tinag-an, Albuera, Leyte, highlighting recent developments in forensic findings and legal actions.
Leyte PNP provincial director Col.Dionisio Apas Jr. said that Fourteen firearms were voluntarily surrendered by the individuals identified as Persons of Interest (POIs) in the incident. These consisted of six 5.56 caliber rifles, two .45 caliber pistols, one Mini Uzi submachine gun, and five 9mm pistols. Firearms verification confirmed that five of the 5.56 caliber rifles, two .45 caliber pistols, and the Mini Uzi submachine gun had no registration records with the Regional Civil Security Unit 8 (RCSU), categorizing them as loose firearms.
One of the rifles was registered to an individual. Meanwhile, the five 9mm pistols were validated by the Regional Logistics and Research Development Division (RLDDD) as officially issued to police personnel. Forensic examinations tests showed that all firearms were operational, with gunpowder residue found on all of them. However, paraffin tests conducted on the Persons of Interest showed no traces of gunpowder residue on their hands or clothing.
Finding disclosed that complaints have been filed against seven individuals for violations of the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act (RA 10591) and the Gun Ban under COMELEC Resolution 11067. These charges were filed because some of the firearms were unregistered, and others were carried without the required permission during the election period.
Meanwhile, the investigation into the Frustrated Murder complaint continues as authorities carefully piece together evidence while examining several possible motives. Investigators are working diligently to identify which of these motives aligns with the facts and the profiles of the victims, ensuring that the case builds on credible foundations.
In addition to analyzing evidence, investigators are studying the trajectory and positioning of the shooter, as recent findings have helped clarify initial assumptions. Although earlier reports suggested the gunman fired from the ceiling area, trajectory analysis and witness accounts have confirmed that the shots came from the left side of the stage, approximately 80 meters away. This critical clarification strengthens the investigation and adds new focus to the ongoing efforts to uncover the truth.
, “The Office remains steadfast in uncovering the truth, ensuring justice, and preserving peace and order.” Apas stressed.
The Office extends its appeal to the public for credible information that may assist in the investigation and discourages the spread of unverified claims that could hinder progress. The continued cooperation of the community is essential to achieving justice and transparency.