Rob suspect shot dead; drugs eyed

MANILA, Philippines - A robbery suspect was gunned down by an unidentified assailant in Quezon City on Friday night hours after he was released from jail.

Francisco Hilario, 23, was shot dead at his house in Barangay Botocan, police said.

Probers said the killing of Hilario could be related to illegal drugs since he was reportedly a drug user.

Hilario’s 17-year-old partner was wounded in the attack.

Investigation showed that the couple was sleeping when a man broke into their shanty and fired at them.

Hilario died at the scene from two gunshots to the head. His partner was taken to the East Avenue Medical Center after she was hit by a stray bullet.

Hilario was arrested last week along with three others for alleged burglary in Barangay Quirino-2B on Oct. 3.

Deputy City Prosecutor Rogelio Velasco ordered the release of Hilario on Thursday pending investigation of his robbery and drug cases.

His three cohorts, Rael Ugtong, 55; Michael Mariano, 48, and Elpidio Rafael, 44, are still in jail.

Superintendent Wilson delos Santos said they found it suspicious that Hilario was ordered released and killed on the same day.