Man Shot in Abdomen During Pre-Dawn Drive-By Shooting in Villa

A quiet Sunday morning in Villa was shattered by gunfire after a man in his 50s was shot in the abdomen while making his way home from a party.

The shooting happened shortly after 4 a.m., when the man reportedly told police that he was walking along the area when occupants of a vehicle opened fire in his direction.

The attackers then sped away, leaving the man wounded.

Despite being shot, he managed to reach a nearby residence, where he collapsed on the gallery. Emergency Medical Services was summoned and transported him to hospital.

The man remains hospitalised and is receiving treatment for the gunshot wound.

Police are appealing to anyone who may have information that could help identify the perpetrators to contact the Criminal Investigation Department at 462-3913 or 462-3914. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477.

The latest shooting comes as law enforcement continues to increase patrols across the country in response to a recent wave of gun-related crimes.

The issue of tougher penalties is also expected to come before Parliament this week, with lawmakers set to debate proposed minimum sentences of up to 30 years when the Lower House meets on Monday and Tuesday.