ZAMBOANGA CITY – Police killed two wanted men in a shootout here on New Year’s Eve.
Police were patrolling the vicinity of a church when they spotted the suspects.
POLICE secure the vicinity of a church in Zambaoanga City on Mew Year's Eve. (FB)
The suspects fired at policemen who retaliated and killed one of the suspects.
A police officer, Police Senior Master Sgt. Ryan Mariano, was wounded and brought to a hospital.
The other suspect, who was identified as Haber Tating, was also wounded and taken to a hospital where he was declared dead.
The suspects were allegedly involved in drug trafficking and several shooting incidents here.
Tating has a warrant of arrest for two counts of murder issued by a Zamboanga City court and another warrant in Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte.
Police Col. Kimberly Molitas, Zamboanga City police chief, said the successful neutralization of the suspects is a testament to their unwavering commitment to rid the streets of dangerous criminals, especially those involved in drug-related crimes and violent offenses.
“We remain steadfast in our mission to keep Zamboanga City safe. This accomplishment exemplifies the hard work and dedication of our police officers in combating crime and ensuring the safety of our citizens,” she said.