Zamboanga City police recapture 14 of 17 in Tuesday morning jailbreak

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — Authorities have recaptured 14 of 17 detainees who bolted their cells in a Zamboanga City police station early Tuesday.

Senior Superintendent Vincent Neri Ignacio, Zamboanga City Police Office director said one detainee surrendered while 13 others were caught in pursuit operations. A manhunt is on for the remaining three escapees.

Ignacio said a certain William Pajarado reportedly led the jailbreak by cutting the padlock of the detention cell in Police Station 6 at Barangay Tetuan. He said the detainees may have taken advantage of the rain to help them escape. 

The cell had more than 60 detainees inside, many of whom chose to stay.

The escapees overpowered the two police personnel who tried to stop them from bolting.

"Police fired a warning shot but many of the escapees did not heed as they made their escape for good," Emil Tuban, a reporter for local TV station who was at the station when the jailbreak happened, said.

Ignacio said responding police and military personnel immediately recaptured seven of the escapees.

The police official also appealed to the families of the remaining fugitives not to help them evade authorities. He said the families have 24 hours to give up the escapees or they will be charged for helping them.

The fugitives are considered armed and dangerous but "shoot to kill will be applied in defense, only if the fugitive will fight back," he said.

Ignacio said photos of the escapees have been posted on social media to alert city residents.

Security has also bee tightened at the bus and seaport terminals.

Ignacio said police personnel who may be found liable for lapses that may have led to the escape will be charged.