Policeman shoots drug pusher

CEBU, Philippines - An alleged drug pusher was injured after he was shot by a policeman who he reportedly tried to shoot first during an anti-illegal drug operation in Barangay Upper Tutay, Pinamungajan town on Friday afternoon.

Roldan Panogaling, 28, was brought by the police to the hospital after sustaining a gunshot wound to his back.

Another suspected drug pusher, Garry Taborada, was arrested.

Acting a report from a concerned citizen, Pinamungajan Police Station personnel discreetly went to a forested area in Upper Tutayand saw a group of persons who appeared to be on a transaction.

They then reportedly saw Panogaling handed over something to Taborada.

Panogaling noticed the policemen and shouted “Bantay, pulis!, prompting the persons gathering in the area to scamper in different directions.

Police Officer 2 Ariel Taguiam chased Panogaling, who tried to hide in a grassy area by crawling.

The suspect pulled out a gun, a cal. 38 revolver, and allegedly pointed it at Taguiam. The police officer allegedly sensed that his life was in danger and shot Panogaling.

The suspect was hit in the left side of his body and was arrested while Taborada was also cornered and arrested by the other policemen.

Taborada was frisked and four small packs of suspected shabu were recovered from his pocket.

Panogaling, who was brought to the district hospital, will be facing charges with Taborada.  (FREEMAN)