Police killed three gunmen during an encounter in Tagum City, Davao del Norte on Friday, Jan. 31.
Two of the suspects were identified as Norman Saquin and Rozendel Arsellias Cañete. Police have yet to disclose the identity of the third suspect.
Lawmen were out to serve warrants of arrest against Saquin and Cañete for murder and firearms violation when the suspects fired at them. Two Special Weapons and Tactics team members were wounded.
Saquin went up the second floor of their hideout and fired at approaching lawmen who returned fire and killed the suspect.
Cañete and companion escaped and they were tracked down in a nearby vacant lot. However, Cañete, instead of surrendering, fired at pursuing officers who neutralized the suspect.
His companion fled and was also killed after he resisted arrest and fired at policemen in a grassy area in a nearby creek.
The Police Regional Office-11 led by regional director Police Brig. Gen. Leon Victor Rosete commended operating units for their achievement.
Rosete assured wounded policemen of the necessary medical care and support. “The PNP remains resolute in its mission to pursue justice, maintain peace and order, and eliminate threats to public safety,” Rosete said.
Meanwhile, police arrested the Davao region’s No. 1 most wanted person in Purok San Miguel II, Barangay Corporacion, Lupon, Davao Oriental, on Saturday, Feb. 1.
Police identified the suspect as Jerry Sungcal Lequin.
Lequin was arrested on a warrant issued for murder by Judge Emilio G. Dayanghirang III, presiding judge, Regional Trial Court Branch 32, 11th Judicial Region, Lupon.
No bail was recommended for the suspect who is now under the custody of the Lupon Municipal Police Station for proper disposition.