Animal theft suspect killed in Ecija shootout
GENERAL NATIVIDAD, Nueva Ecija – One of two suspected thieves were neutralized after engaging patrolling operatives in a gunfight here on early Saturday night.
Police head Major Shariel Paulino said his men were conducting mobile patrol and “Oplan: Sita” operations in Sitio Pula, Bgy. Manarog here at 2:10 a.m. when they accosted two motorcycle-riding suspects, allegedly carrying a sack containing three fighting cocks or “panabong”.
However, instead of submitting themselves for routine questioning, the two sped away and fired at the operatives, triggering a running gun battle which resulted in the death of one of the suspects, who was initially identified as alias “Nani”.
“Nakapagtago po sa dilim ang isang suspect papunta sa bukid,” said Police investigator SSgt. Junrey Alay-ay.
“Sinita po kasi sila ng tropa natin dahil may bitbit na sako, yun pala may laman na tatlong panabong na [Texas], eh may report po kase na may nawawalang mga hayop sa lugar kaya naghigpit sa patrolya ang ating kapulisan,” Alay-ay told the Journal Group in a phone interview.
Deputy operations chief Lt. Eduardo Molina said they are still verifying reports if the slain suspect was also involved in previous criminal cases such as rape and illegally possessing firearms.
Recovered from the slain suspect were one cal. 38 revolver and a black Rusi motorcycle.
