A 35-year-old alleged leader of a notorious criminal group involved in illegal drugs and carnapping activities across Metro Manila and Mindanao was arrested by authorities during an armed encounter on Saturday, November 2.
The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) identified the suspect as Abdulfahad Dirampa Malik, also known as "Rex Fajad,” the leader of the Rex Fajad Criminal Group.
The suspect was arrested following a shootout with Pasig Police along Urbano Velasco Avenue, Barangay Pinagbuhatan at around 12:35 a.m.
Based on the patrolling authorities, they noticed Malik and three others behaving suspiciously near a local establishment, prompting them to approach the suspects.
However, Malik suddenly drew a firearm and opened fire, leading the police officers to respond in defense. Due to the encounter, Malik sustained injuries and was immediately brought to Pasig City General Hospital.
During the operation, police recovered a .38 revolver, a Yamaha Sniper motorcycle, and a Honda Beat motorcycle at the scene, which were submitted for forensic examination.
Meanwhile, authorities stated that they are conducting follow-up operations to arrest the three other suspects who fled the scene.
According to NCRPO, on September 5, 2016, a search warrant was served against Malik, leading to the confiscation of nine pieces of plastic sachets suspected to be shabu, resulting in his arrest for violation of Section 11 of RA 9165. He also faces charges under the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act (RA 10591), which governs the licensing and possession of firearms and related offenses.
It was added that Malik is also implicated in numerous criminal cases, including violations of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act (RA 9165), specifically Sections 5, 8, and 11, relating to the illegal sale, possession, and manufacture of dangerous drugs on February 26, 2021.
He was also involved in a forcible abduction case in Marawi, violating Article 267 of the Revised Penal Code, classifying him as a High-Value Individual (HVI) on September 19, 2022.
Moreover, NCRPO said that the suspect was also involved in a carnapping case on February 13, 2023, under the Anti-Carnapping Act (RA 10883), and remained at large until his arrest on Saturday.
"This arrest of a notorious criminal leader shows our unwavering commitment to keeping Metro Manila secure; we are implementing robust measures to counter criminal activities, enforcing firearms laws under RA 10591, especially as we prepare for the upcoming 2024 midterm elections,” NCRPO Acting Director Maj. Gen. Sidney Hernia said.