1 dead, 1 wounded in Malabon shootout

MANILA, Philippines - A suspected gang member died and a police officer was wounded in what police said was a shootout in Malabon City early yesterday morning.

Ceferino Sanoy Jr., 26, died on the spot after he allegedly traded shots with responding policemen from the Malabon Police Community Precinct 8 at past 2 a.m. along P. Aquino Avenue in Letre, said city police chief Senior Superintendent Severino Abad Jr.

Abad said Police Officer 3 Raul Salazar was wounded and remains confined in an undisclosed hospital.

Prior to the shootout, police said Arman Cabeda, 34, a jeepney driver, and Harold Rufo were beaten by Sanoy and two unidentified members of the “Bulabog Gang” for unknown reason.

Both victims were taken to the Tondo Medical Center for treatment.

Policemen responded to the scene after they were alerted by concerned citizens.

Sanoy’s companions escaped upon seeing the police officers but he opted to shoot it out with the police, resulting in his death.

Abad said an investigation is being conducted to determine if there were lapses on the part of the policemen.