A 52-year-old man was beheaded by his 29-year-old neighbor in Barangay Mauswagon, Godod, Zamboanga del Norte.

According to witnesses, the victim was repeatedly hacked by the suspect until his head was severed.

“Yung pagkataga sa kanya ay sa leeg na nag-cause ng pagtanggal ng ulo. According naman sa witness doon sa area na nung after ng pagtaga, kinuha daw ng suspek yung ulo at dinala papunta sa bahay niya,” Police Regional Office-9 Spokesperson, Major Shellamie Chang, said.

Authorities said the victim’s body was found just a few meters away from the suspect’s house.

The suspect turned himself in to the police later.

Based on investigation, the victim and the suspect figured in a heated argument prior to the incident.

“Accordingly, after nilang magtalo, itong victim ay tumalikod kasi parang nasa harapan lang ng bahay  nangyari yung pagtatalo nila, tumalikod siya para pumasok sa kanilang bahay, pagtalikod niya, doon siya tinaga ng ating  suspek,” Chang added.

Authorities are still verifying reports that the victim may have intended to get a metal pipe to use against the suspect.

Investigators are looking into land dispute as possible motive.

“Long standing grudge daw, matagal na ata yung alitan nila at isa sa tinitingnan natin is yung lupa nga nila,” Chang said.

The suspect is facing murder charges.

(With reports from Efren Mamac, GMA Regional TV One Mindanao)