Caloocan: The masterminds behind the fatal shooting of vlogger Alicia Lipata, popularly known as Mima Alicia, in Caloocan City have been identified, with debt as a possible motive for the killing, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said Friday.

According to Philippines News Agency, PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., during a chance interview with reporters at the Improvised Explosive Device (IED) Threat and Security Symposium, stated that investigators were examining the angle of debt as a potential motive. Alicia Lipata reportedly owed the alleged masterminds PHP8 million.

Nartatez explained that the investigation is considering both professional connections and possible personal disagreements that may have originated from the debt. The masterminds, identified as a business couple, have been charged with murder and are actively being pursued by law enforcement authorities.

Alicia Lipata was tragically gunned down by a motorcycle-riding tandem on July 17 in front of her home in Caloocan, an incident that has sent shockwaves through the community and raised concerns about safety and justice.