MANILA, Philippines — A former member of the U.S. Army died in North Cotabato after he fought with two hold-uppers, who fled with the victim’s money amounting to more than P200,000.
Pikit police chief inspector Romy Castañares on Monday identified the fatality as 60-year-old Michael Jeff Keith, who after his retirement decided to live in the Philippines and do business in Cagayan de Oro City.
Keith, who was with his two minor children, parked his delivery van in Brgy. Poblacion when the motorcycle-riding assailants approached him and declared a hold-up, according to initial police reports.
The victim fought back with his attackers, prompting the latter to shoot Keith, who was declared dead on arrival at a hospital.
Just a week ago, another foreign businessman was also killed in Pikit by gunmen, who took away his belongings.
Police identified the victim as Etesham Ulhag, a Pakistani national engaged in a money lending business. The killers, armed with pistols, took away the victim’s wallet and sling bag before shooting the trader in Brgy. Dalingaoen.