Rape suspect killed after trying to get gun from cop

CEBU, Philippines — A man was killed after he tried to snatch the gun of a police officer who was supposed to arrest him for allegedly raping a 12-year-old person with disability (PWD) in Brgy. Bulasa, Argao, Cebu, on June 11, 2024.

The suspect, a 40-year-old married man, was accused of rape by his neighbor. The Freeman is withholding the names of both parties due to the sensitive nature of the case.

According to Police Major Janus Giangan, the mother of the victim complained that her child was raped multiple times by the suspect.

The incident reportedly took place last June 8 and 9 and the mother found out on June 10.  But she was only able to report to the Police Station the next day because the child had to be brought to the hospital due to bleeding.

When the mother reported the case, the Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD) of the Argao Police Station together with the Department of Social Welfare and Development, accompanied the mother to the hospital where the doctor confirmed that the child had lacerations and was bleeding.

The child reportedly confirmed to the police that she was raped by their neighbor.

That same day, the police were able to arrest the suspect. While en route to the Argao Police Station, the suspect reportedly kept on complaining that the handcuff was tight and his hands hurt. The Police officer then moved the handcuff to the front.

“Wala mi magdahom nga naa diay siyay intensiyon nga mangagaw ni siya og armas sa usa sa atong arresting Officer,” said Police Major Giangan.

The suspect was allegedly aggressive and violent and fought hard to get the gun from the officer.

“Agresibo kaayo… bayolente kaayo siya nga nangagaw mao to nahitabo didto nga panaglangayugay sa armas,” Giangan explained.

Amidst the scuffle the gun reportedly went off, hitting the suspect below the chest.

The suspect was still alive and was rushed to the hospital but was declared dead when they got there. — Yves Mae Salinas /ATO (FREEMAN)