Cops shoot dead ‘gun-for-hire’

CEBU, Philippines – A suspected robber and gun-for-hire was shot dead in an encounter with Talisay City Police Station and Provincial Intelligence Branch operatives in Barangay San Roque, Talisay City yesterday afternoon.

Ritchie Daag, who has standing warrants of arrest for murder and robbery, died after he suffered several gunshot wounds despite wearing a bullet-proof vest after he pulled out his gun and tried to shoot it out with the police past 2 p.m.

Rex Alomdo of Punta Engaño, Lapu-Lapu City was also taken into police custody after he was seen in the place where the incident happened.

Inspector Windell Abellana, Talisay City Police Station deputy chief, said that Daag was sighted by the police near the Talisay City fish port and seemed to be waiting for someone.

It was later learned that Daag was waiting for a woman whom he had dealings with.

Suspecting that Daag was armed, Talisay City police coordinated with PIB for the possible arrest of the suspect.

Senior Police Officer 1 Reynante Solante and his team arrived in Talisay City and discussed with Abellana how best to approach Daag.

When the policemen arrived and recognized them, however, Daag allegedly immediately pulled out a gun and tried to shoot them.

Solante saw what Daag was about to do so he immediately fired and hit him, causing his death.

The policemen recovered from Daag the bullet-proof vest, a KG-9 submachine gun, a .45 pistol, a hand grenade, and several ammunition.

They also accosted Alomdo on suspicion that he may be Daag’s cohort. Alomdo, though, said that he simply happened to pass by the area when Daag decided to trade bullets with the police.

Alomdo said that when he heard gunfire he ran towards the fish port to look for cover. —/RHM (FREEMAN)