Policeman shot in Talisay

CEBU, Philippines - A policeman is in critical condition after he was shot by unidentified motorcycle-riding men in Barangay Mohon, Talisay City yesterday afternoon.

PO3 Arnold Damasco was off duty and was driving his motorcycle with a friend when he was shot in his left side, the bullet exiting his abdomen.

He was taken to the Talisay City District Hospital and was later transferred to the Chong Hua Hospital in Cebu City for further treatment.

Damasco was formerly assigned as intelligence operative of the Talisay City Police Station and was detailed to the Talisay City Jail last week.

SPO1 Mikie Espina, homicide investigator, told The FREEMAN that Damasco was traveling home from the Talisay City Jail in Barangay Lawaan II at around 3:45 p.m.

Upon reaching Barangay Mohon, two men on board a motorcycle tailed them. The assailants swerved closer to Damasco before the backrider pulled out a gun and shot him.

Police recovered an empty shell of .45 pistol. Also found was the caliber .45 psitol loaded with eight bullets and the 9mm pistol of Damasco.

Espina added that they have yet to check the motive behind the shooting. They are now collating the rogues' gallery of the neighboring police stations for the witness to identify the assailants.  (FREEMAN)