TACLOBAN CITY – A suspected gunrunner was killed and a civilian and three policemen were wounded in a buy-bust operation on Saturday, Jan. 11, in Pido Extension, Barangay East Awang, Calbayog City, Samar.
Police identified the suspect as Ricardo Dealagdon, alias Edgar Nayanga, a member of the Wahingon Private Armed Group in Eastern Visayas and a top regional priority target list.
Lawmen launched the operation against Dealagdon after learning of his gunrunning activities.
A poseur-buyer managed to purchase a KG9 sub-machine gun worth P22,000 from Dealagdon’s men. However, Dealagdon’s men sensed they were dealing with the police and fled toward his house.
They fired at approaching lawmen and wounded a civilian and three police officers. Lawmen returned fire and killed Dealagdon and arrested five members.
The wounded lawmen and Dealagdon were taken to a hospital in Calbayog City District Hospital where Dealagdon was declared dead from multiple bullet wounds.
The arrested suspects are in the custody of the Calbayog City Police Station.
Samar police chief Col. Antonietto Eric Mendoza cited operating units and said the operation was legitimate.
“Our law enforcement teams followed all necessary protocols in carrying out this operation. Our officers are fully committed to ensuring peace and security, and we will continue to work diligently to uphold the law,” he said.