Police recapture suspected hired gun

CEBU, Philippines - A suspected gun-for-hire, who is out on bail for illegal possession of firearm, was again arrested yesterday by the members of the Special Weapons and Tactics after a brief chase when he tried to evade a police checkpoint at the downtown area.

Arnel “Budlat” Gomez, who was also tagged in the murder of a police asset and a member of the Barangay Intelligence Network last February, was caught in possession of two unlicensed firearms and a big pack of shabu.

SWAT chief Stanly Sabang said that the members of the Motorcycle Riding Unit flagged down Gomez in Colon Street at 2:00 a.m. yesterday. However, the suspect refused to stop prompting the policemen to chase him. Gomez was eventually cornered in Balagtas Street, Barangay Pahina Central.

 The police recovered a caliber .22 pistol and a Caliber .45 pistol with suppressor including a big pack of shabu and drug paraphernalia from Gomez.

Sabang said they believe that Gomez was on his way to deliver the illegal drugs found in his possession. The police are now preparing charges for illegal possession of firearms and drug possession against Gomez.

 Gomez was earlier tagged in the murder of BIN member Catalino Entoma Jr. and police asset Michael Moralde last month.

Entoma’s murder has caused the relief of Chief Inspector Renero Agustin as Carbon Police chief. Although Gomez was linked in the two murders but the police have yet to file charges against him for lack of witnesses.  (FREEMAN)