Cop shot dead in Taguig

A 46-year-old traffic policeman was killed by a burglar who broke into his house in Signal Village, Taguig City before dawn yesterday.

Senior Police Officer 3 Jaime Simbahan, an operative of Traffic Management Group based in Camp Crame, sustained multiple gunshot wounds and died on the spot inside his house on 593rd Street in GHQ Subdivision at around 3 a.m.

Investigators said Simbahan woke up after hearing the back door open. Carrying a caliber .45 pistol, the officer went to check if there was an intruder in the house.

The victim’s 12-year-old daughter told investigators that she suddenly heard his father shout while accosting the intruder. This was followed by several gunshots.

Police Officer 3 Junrene Obico said the suspect fled through the same back door.

When members of the Simbahan rushed out of their rooms, they saw the officer on the floor, lying in a pool of blood.

Personal belongings of the victim, including his wallet, were missing.

Obico, however, said the suspects did not take the victim’s service firearm.

"Mukhang naunahan siya nung magnanakaw," Obico said.

Police also said no other witnesses have surfaced, but neighbors admitted that burglaries are rampant in the area.

Probers said that one resident falls prey to thieves each week despite intensified security measures taken by barangay officials. – Edu Punay