Malabon cop who shot neighbor faces homicide raps

Charges of reckless imprudence resulting in homicide were filed yesterday against a Malabon policeman who claimed to have "accidentally" shot a neighbor in Tondo, Manila past midnight Saturday.

Benjamin Maliksi, an employee of Prudential Holding Corp. with offices in Ermita, Manila, was declared dead on arrival at the Mary Johnston Hospital from a gunshot wound in the left side of the body. Doctors said the victim was hit by a bullet which pierced his left arm and went through his body.

The alleged gunwielder, PO2 Christopher Rodriguez, 26, assigned at the investigation division of the Malabon police force, was surrendered to the authorities by his superior, Senior Inspector Napoleon Bataycan.

Investigation conducted by SPO1 Benito Cabatbat showed that at around 1:35 a.m. Saturday, Maliksi was seen drinking with several men in front of his residence at 431 Concha st., Tondo.

Shortly after, Rodriguez arrived on board a taxicab. Rodriguez and Maliksi were neighbors.

Witnesses said Maliksi was overheard talking with Rodriguez regarding his investigative work at the Malabon police station. After a couple of minutes, witnesses quoted Maliksi as saying,"Pare ang ganda naman niyan, paputukin mo (You have a nice gun, fire it)." Afterwhich, a shot rang out.

Maliksi was seen holding his bloodied left arm, then he slumped to the ground. Rodriguez reportedly assisted the victim and rushed him to the hospital on board a tricycle. Rodriguez refused to talk to reporters.