Alleged pusher slain in Quiapo drug bust

MANILA, Philippines - A suspected drug pusher was shot dead by a Manila policeman during a drug bust in Quiapo, Manila yesterday morning.

According to a report by Senior Police Officer 2 Edmundo Cabal, anti-drug police officers from the Manila Police District Station 3 were on a stakeout along C.M. Recto Avenue when they spotted a Toyota Vios (ZSJ-186), occupied by the suspect and another man and parked near the corner of C.M. Recto Avenue and Severino street.

Senior Inspector Glen Gonzales managed to conclude a transaction with the unidentified suspect when the latter’s companion noticed Gonzales’ signal to other police officers. The suspect pulled out his gun and Gonzales scuffled for possession until he was able to draw his service firearm and shoot the suspect. The suspect’s companion escaped during the scuffle.

The police officers recovered two sachets of shabu and a snub-nosed Smith and Wesson .38 caliber revolver with no serial number from the slain suspect, who died from three gunshot wounds in the chest.

Investigators also found a photocopy of a driver’s license and charge sheet for a drug case stating the name of Redford Orbiso Saguin of Olongapo City in the Vios. A photocopy of a car’s registration papers with the name of Melissa Constantino of Binondo, Manila were also found in the Vios’ compartment.

Senior Inspector Maying de la Cruz said they cannot say for sure if the slain suspect is Saguin. The suspect’s body was brought to the Funeraria Cruz for autopsy and safekeeping.