Landmine blast kills farmer

A FARMER was killed in an improvised bomb explosion in the province of Zamboanga del Norte, military officials said Monday.

Army’s 1st Infantry Division spokesperson Captain Alberto Caber said the incident took place around 5 a.m. Sunday in Sitio Mahayahay, Balas village, Labason, Zamboanga del Norte.

The victim was identified as William Barbona, 48, who owned a farmland in the village of Balas, Caber said.

Investigation showed that Barbona was on his way to harvest coconuts when he accidentally stepped on an improvised bomb fashioned out as a landmine, Caber said.

He said before the incident, Barbona received a letter demanding him to pay protection money but the farmer refused to give in to the demand.

He said Omar Arasid alias Sapi’s group is eyed as the ones behind the incident based on the evidences found.

Army’s 1st Infantry Division commander Major General Ricardo Rainier Cruz III has ordered the troops to assist the police in the conduct of investigation and in pursuing the suspects.

“I condemned this incident. Placing this IED (improvised explosive device) by lawless elements brought death, unnecessary suffering, and misery to our people,” Cruz said.

“I encourage the populace to be on alert and vigilant to ensure public safety,” Cruz added.