Robber killed, cop hurt in scuffle

MANILA, Philippines - A suspected “Akyat Bahay” gang member was shot dead after he grabbed the gun of one of the policemen who accosted him in Tondo, Manila at dawn yesterday.

The still unidentified suspect died while being taken to the Tondo Hospital while his cohort managed to escape.

Police Officer 3 Rodel Benitez said Leah Miral called up and requested police assistance due to the presence of two men roaming near her house on Capulong street in Tondo.

PO2 Roberto Benitez and PO2 Raymund Boco were immediately dispatched to the area.

The police officers were about to accost the suspects when one of them sneaked from behind and grabbed the service firearm of Benitez, triggering a scuffle between them.

At this juncture, the other suspect drew an improvised shotgun and shot Benitez, hitting him in the process. Boco retaliated, killing one of the suspects.