A judge of the Regional Trial Court in Basilan was shot dead by two motorcycle-riding assailants in Barangay Tumaga, Zamboanga City, today, November 12.
Police said Judge Joseph Wee Sit, the presiding judge of RTC Branch 2 in Basilan, was driving along a road in the barangay when the suspects opened fire.
The Integrated Bar of the Philippines condemned the killing, calling it an attack not only on the judge but also on the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary.
The IBP urged the Philippine National Police, the National Bureau of Investigation and other concerned agencies to prioritize the investigation and bring everyone involved in the crime to justice.
It also called on the government to strengthen security measures for judges and court personnel, especially those assigned to high-risk areas.
The IBP expressed its condolences to Judge Sit’s family and the judiciary, and honored his service to the law.
Authorities have yet to release further details on the suspects or the motive behind the attack.