CEBU CITY – A lawman was shot and wounded by an ex-convict in a police operation in Barangay Inayawan here on Thursday night, Jan. 18.
Police Staff Sgt. Santos Catipay was hit in the chest but did not sustain severe injuries due to the bullet-proof vest he was wearing.
The suspect, Vince Winard Villareal, was arrested after the incident.
Investigation said Catipay and four other policemen went to Barangay Inayawan to validate reports of illegal drug activities in the area.
While they were walking on a road, the five policemen chanced upon Villareal.
Police said that without a word, Villareal drew a firearm and shot Catipay.
The suspect ran to his house where he was eventually cornered by Catipay’s companions.
Catipay was rushed to a hospital where he is in stable condition.
A .45 caliber pistol was recovered from the suspect.
Police said the suspect was convicted for homicide and served his 12-year sentence at the Abuyog Penal Farm in Leyte.