NIA-Maguindanao official shot dead in Cotabato

COTABATO CITY - An official of the National Irrigation Authority (NIA) was shot dead by unidentified assailants in Barangay Mother Rosary Heights, Cotabato City Monday afternoon.

The victim was identified as Nestor Espenilla, 62, acting division manager of NIA-Maguindanao.

Authorities said the victim embarked from his vehicle parked outside his residence when motorcycle-riding gunmen shot him.

He was rushed to the hospital but was declared dead on arrival, according to police.

Police are conducting a thorough investigation to determine the motive and the assailants behind the incident.

Police investigation revealed that victim earlier escaped an attempt on his life when their office pickup was ambushed last February 27 in Barangay Mother Poblacion in Cotabato.

Since January this year, a total of 34 shooting incidents have been recorded in the city. Four of the victsims were government officials.