12/08/2026
TWO SUSPECTS ARRESTED IN MURCIA BARANGAY KAGAWAD MURDER
Police have arrested two of the four suspects allegedly involved in the killing of a barangay kagawad in Barangay Santa Rosa, Murcia, Negros Occidental.
The first suspect, identified only as alias “Jo,” 42, a construction worker and resident of Purok Relocation, Barangay Santa Rosa, was arrested around 7:50 p.m. on August 10 in Barangay Zone 2, Murcia.
Police said “Jo” was listed as the ninth most wanted person at the regional level.
The second suspect, alias “Angi,” 52, also a construction worker and resident of Purok Relocation, was arrested around 8:45 p.m. on August 11, also in Barangay Zone 2.
Both arrests were carried out by the Murcia Municipal Police Station following the issuance of warrants of arrest.
The arrests stemmed from the January 26 killing of Barangay Kagawad Joe Arnel Gawan of Barangay Santa Rosa.
Gawan was shot in the head at around 10:25 a.m. while he was getting out of a Mitsubishi Highlander at Purok Puncian after participating in a clean-up drive. The gunman reportedly fled toward Murcia Proper.
Police later formed Special Investigation Task Group “GAWAN” to investigate the case and identify those responsible for the killing.
The investigation resulted in the identification of four individuals allegedly involved in the murder.
A case for murder under Article 248 of the Revised Penal Code was filed against them on February 13, 2026.
Authorities said the search for the two remaining suspects is continuing.
