A shocking incident unfolded on Thursday morning at a Seventh-day Adventist Church in Barangay Puntod, Cagayan de Oro City, when Benjamin Mendez, the church treasurer, was shot inside the church compound. The victim was quickly rushed to a nearby hospital after the attack, but his current condition remains undisclosed as of this time.
According to initial police reports, Jimboy Abista, a fellow church member, is the suspected gunman. Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots near the church premises shortly before the suspect fled the scene in a Toyota Vios.
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The victim’s son, Jediah Mendez, revealed that his father had been receiving death threats from Abista prior to the shooting. Jediah also confirmed that his father had previously filed a legal complaint against Abista, accusing him of irregularities related to church funds. Abista had reportedly been suspended from his duties at the church due to financial misconduct.
In a turn of events, Abista later surrendered to the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG). Authorities have cordoned off the area as they continue their investigation, collecting ballistic evidence and interviewing witnesses.
While the full motive behind the shooting is still under investigation, early information suggests that the attack may be linked to a long-standing dispute over the alleged misuse of church funds. The Cagayan de Oro City Police Office has assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway, and they are committed to ensuring justice for the victim.