Seven police officers from Ormoc City are currently in the custody of the Albuera Municipal Police Station in Leyte following their presence at a residential compound linked to the gunman who shot confessed drug lord and mayoral candidate Rolan “Kerwin” Espinosa.
Espinosa, 47, was shot in the chest during a campaign rally in Barangay Tinag-an, Albuera, on Thursday afternoon.
Also injured in the incident were his younger sister and running mate, Mariel Espinosa, and a young girl who sustained a minor wound.
According to Philippine National Police spokesperson Police Brigadier General Jean Fajardo, the seven officers were found at the compound where the suspected getaway vehicle was allegedly taken after the attack.
Fajardo said the police are now investigating whether these officers had any involvement in the shooting incident.
She noted that a pursuit operation was launched targeting a “vehicle of interest” that fled the campaign site shortly after the shooting.
The seven officers, two of whom are commissioned officials and five noncommissioned, were reportedly in civilian attire when discovered.
Fajardo added that two vehicles were found at the location, both containing a cache of firearms.
The house where the officers were seen is reportedly owned by an official from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
Despite the attempt on his life, Espinosa has stated he will not withdraw from his mayoral candidacy.