By Edwin Fernandez

AMBUSH SITE. One of two shooting victims in Barangay Inug-og, Pikit, North Cotabato with their motorbike (inset) nearby following an attack by unidentified assailants on Tuesday (Dec. 3, 2024). Police are looking at family feud as a potential motive. (Photo courtesy of DXND Radio Cotabato

COTABATO CITY – Two senior high school students were killed by two motorcycle-riding suspects in Barangay Inug-og, Pikit on Tuesday morning.

Lt. Warren James Caang, spokesperson of the North Cotabato police provincial office, said manhunt is ongoing in coordination with other security forces in the area.

The victims, both 18, were traveling to the Noorul Eilm Academy Foundation Inc., also on a motorcycle, when the suspects opened fire.

One was killed instantly while the other was declared dead on arrival at a hospital in the town center.

Both were residents of Barangay Kabasalan in Pikit.

Caang suggested the attack might be connected to a family feud, as neither victim had any known criminal records.

Investigators have ruled out robbery as a motive since the victims’ personal belongings and their motorcycle were left untouched. The investigation into the motive behind the ambush continues. (PNA)