Cotabato City Blast Hurts 3

Cotabato City (PNA) — Three students were injured when an improvised explosive device went off Monday night inside the Cotabato City State Polytechnic College (CCSPC), police said.

The IED, made of flash powder, cut nails and triggering device, was planted and set off at 11 p.m. under the grandstand where a battle of the band competition was earlier held.

Injured were Neil Barasbaras Borja, 20, Dondon Jumalon Bangis, 25, Tyrone Sunico Jore, all residents of Notre Dame Avenue, Cotabato City.

They sustained injuries in various parts of their legs.

Police investigation showed the victims were preparing to leave the venue after the competition when the blast occurred.

Witnesses told police they saw few men roaming around and under the grandstand before the blast.

Police are seeking the CCTV footage of CCSPC management as part of the investigation process.

Mayor Japal Guiani Jr has directed the police to intensify police visibility in major city streets following the rash of shooting which police believed was related to illegal drug activities. (PNA) JMC/NYP/EOF