Philippines: Five killed in drug-related violence in Cebu City October 4

Event

Local reports indicate that five unidentified people were killed in an ambush early on Thursday, October 4, in the Malubog district of Cebu City. Multiple gunshot wounds were reported on the victims. Initial police investigations point to possible illicit drug trafficking as the motive of the crime.

Context

Crime levels are high in the Philippines and many crimes carried out are related to narcotics amid President Rodrigo Duterte's "war on drugs." Although foreign nationals are not usually directly targeted, some have been caught up in fatal incidents in the past.

Advice

Individuals in the Philippines are advised to exercise caution at all times and take sensible precautions against crime.