Cops Shoot Armed Suspect, Seize Gun and Grenade

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY – A 37-year-old man tagged in a recent shooting incident was injured in an armed confrontation with police during his arrest in Barangay 2 on Tuesday.

Police Capt. Genus David, deputy chief of Police Station 2, identified the suspect as “Chong,” a resident of Barangay 6, who had just been released from jail a week earlier.

David said police responded to a tip from concerned citizens about an armed man inside a computer shop in Purok Balinday, Barangay 2.

Upon seeing the police vehicle, Chong allegedly fled toward an alley, prompting a brief chase.

During the pursuit, Chong reportedly fired at the officers, who returned fire.

No police officers were injured, but the suspect sustained gunshot wounds to the shoulder and arm.

He was taken to Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital and is now under hospital arrest.

Authorities recovered a .45 caliber pistol with two magazines and live ammunition from the suspect.

A grenade was also found inside his bag, according to David.

“He is considered armed and dangerous,” David said.

The suspect claimed the firearm belonged to a family member, but police classified it as a loose firearm.

David said they are coordinating with the Talisay City Police Station to verify the offense Chong previously served time for.

Chong will be charged with disobedience to a person in authority, frustrated homicide, illegal possession of firearms and ammunition under the Comelec gun ban, and illegal possession of explosives.

Prior to his arrest, Chong had been identified as the suspect in a June 1 shooting in Purok Lubi, Barangay 3.

The incident injured a 29-year-old man and a 53-year-old woman who was hit by a stray bullet.

Police recovered three spent cartridge cases of an unidentified firearm at the scene.

David said Chong faces charges of frustrated murder and physical injuries in connection with the Barangay 3 shooting.

Police continue to investigate the motive behind the attack.