TACLOBAN CITY – Three policemen were killed and four others were wounded in an encounter with a gang in Barangay Mahayag, Santa Margarita, Samar on Tuesday, January 30.
POLICEMEN wounded in a gunfight with a criminal gang in Samar are treated in a local hospital. (Photo via Marie Marticio)
Killed-in-action were a police master sergeant from the Regional Mobile Force Battalion, a staff sergeant, and a corporal from the 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company in Samar.
Two corporals and two patrolmen were wounded during the encounter against the Ampoan Criminal Gang led by Edito Ampoan Jr.
Lawmen were serving a warrant of arrest to Ampoan for murder issued on May 12, 2014 by the Calbayog City Regional Trial Court Branch 32 when his group fired at the police officers.
Ampoan’s lair was located in a mountainous area 15 kilometers away from the town proper.
The Special Action Force was prepositioned to assist engaging lawmen.
RESIDENTS of Barangay Mahayag in Santa Margarita, Samar seek refuge at the municipal gymnasium following the gun battle. (Photo via Marie Marticio)
Residents fled the area and are staying at the municipal sports center due to the encounter.