VM's security aide linked to shooting

Mayoralty bet Fernandez

DAGUPAN CITY –A barangay kagawad of Barangay Lucao here was rushed to the Region I Medical Center for treatment of a gunshot wound inflicted allegedly by a member of the Special Action Force believed to be temporarily detailed as security aide of Vice Mayor Belen Fernandez. The victim, Barangay Kagawad Alvin Agusto,39, sustained a gunshot wound at the lower hip but was pronounced out of danger. Initial reports said the victim was celebrating a party with friends at the Jurasic Ark Restaurant at the corner of Lucao Road and De Venecia Expressway when he came upon the suspect,PO3 Oliver Husain Nicanor, who was a customer in the same place at about 2:30a.m. of May 3.
 Moments later an altercation ensued between Agusto and the suspect that led to the violent scuffle. Nicanor, who was reportedly detailed by the Department of Interior and Local Governments as security aide of Fernandez, tried to escape but was cornered at the vicinity of the CSI Stadia where he tried to seek refuge.
 The incident immediately drew condemnation from various sectors. “I strongly condemn the shooting incident that happened in Lucao since Comelec rules prohibit any police, let alone a member of the special action force, to act as bodyguard for any mayor, vice mayor, or councilors,” said Brian Lim, a candidate for vice mayor. He said Agusto is a friend and supporter of the Lim family although he is reportedly an employee of CSI. Lim said that being a victim of similar violent incident in the 2010 elections, he is sympathizing with Agusto and his family. Brian Lim narrowly escaped death when he was hit with a muzzle of an M-16 armalite rifle by hired goons of a rival camp in the last elections.
 He and his companions were forced to lie face down with guns pointed at them. Last week, several leaders of Mayor Benjamin Lim like former Barangay Captain Noel Melecio and former Councilor Nick Aquino have been subjected to police harassment in the guise of keeping peace and order during the campaign period.