Friday, July 04, 2008 Man attempts to kill Swedish seaman By Ruby P. Silubrico
A 25-YEAR-old man surrendered to authorities for attempting to kill a Swedish national Tuesday afternoon at Sitio Casulma, Barangay Oracon, Sibunag, Guimaras.
Jines Publico surrendered Thursday to Sibunag police chief Reuben Siason after the authorities negotiated with the family of the suspect.
Publico, who was presented to the local media at the office of Police Chief Superintendent Isagani Cuevas, admitted that he indeed shot the victim identified as Per Ake Heideman, a Swedish seaman.
The incident happened around 4:30 p.m. while the victim was outside their house, waiting for his Filipina wife Julie Fernandez. Publico showed up armed with a .357 revolver.
The suspect allegedly provoked the victim. This resulted to a heated argument between the two of them until the suspect suddenly shot the victim four times.
The victim succumbed to four gunshot wounds on both his arms, the left portion of his belly, and on his back.
Prior to the incident, the victim said he was allegedly challenged by Heideman along with five bodyguards to a fight. Publico said he ignored the challenge.
He added that Heideman and his men destroyed the fence of his house.
"I asked him why he destroyed the fence of my house. Instead of answering me, he tried to beat me with a baseball bat. To defend myself, I shot him. But I did not intend to kill him. I shot him in order to stop him from hitting me," Publico explained.
Publico said he decided to surrender to clear himself from accusations and to avoid from being hunted by the authorities.
He said he is ready to face the charges against him.
Possible reason of the fight that investigators are looking into is the issue of land dispute.
A portion of Publico's land is reportedly claimed by Heideman after Publico pawned it to the Swedish seaman.
Publico and his family reportedly refused to vacate the said property, which started the feud.
Authorities are saying the suspect will be charged with frustrated murder.
The victim is presently confined at St. Paul's Hospital.
