JAVIER, Leyte – Two police officers were wounded after a suspect for frustrated murder snatched a gun and shot them inside the police station here on Monday, July 22.
Major Ronald Puso, Javier police chief, said the suspect reportedly went to the station to surrender because he received information that he already had a warrant of arrest.
Puso said that they have not received the warrant yet so they asked the suspect to stay in their holding area while the victims were having lunch.
“He already brought food and stuff because he said he wanted to surrender. While five personnel were having their lunch, he snatched a gun and shot them,” Puso said.
One of the policemen was shot in his chest while the other one sustained a bullet wound in his leg. A police officer was able to return fire and hit the suspect.
The suspect was taken to the Rural Health Unit in front of the police station where he was declared dead.
Puso said that the victims are in stable condition but need to undergo surgery.
The Leyte Provincial Police Office issued a statement following the incident.
"Earlier today, an individual visited the Javier Municipal Police Station under the pretense of surrendering to authorities after learning of his arrest warrant, committed a direct assault on our personnel. The suspect managed to get hold of an officer's issued firearms and, in the ensuing struggle, shot and wounded two of our officers. Fortunately, another officer on duty acted swiftly and decisively, subduing the suspect and preventing any further harm,” Police Col. Dionisio DC Apas Jr., LPPO officer-in-charge, said.
“In light of this, I want to assure the public that this incident is isolated, and the Leyte Police Provincial Office (LPPO) is actively managing and addressing the situation. I have instructed the Chief of the Provincial Investigation and Detective Management Unit to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the incident.”
The Leyte PPO reaffirms its commitment to maintaining peace and order, with the safety of our officers and the communities we serve as our top priority. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family and loved ones of the suspect involved in this unfortunate event, Apas added.
“Please be assured of a thorough investigation to gather all relevant details concerning this incident. We remain dedicated to upholding peace and order throughout Leyte province, and incidents such as this are handled with the utmost seriousness and professionalism. We will provide further updates as soon as additional information becomes available."