SUV driver in cop’s hit-and-run surrenders

MANILA, Philippines — After a manhunt was launched for his arrest, the driver of a sport utility (SUV) vehicle who injured a member of the police Highway Patrol Group (HPG) along the South Luzon Expressway in Muntinlupa surrendered to authorities on Tuesday.

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. identified the motorist as Manjot Singh, 21, driver of a Jetour Dashing SUV tagged in a hit-and-run incident that injured Pat. Jeric Aya-ay on June 6.

Singh, a Filipino-Indian, was accompanied by his parents when he appeared at the HPG headquarters.

The PNP obtained a breakthrough after probers saw the vehicle up for sale on a social media platform.

Police found the SUV undergoing repainting at a car shop in Barangay Cupang, Antipolo, which led them to the suspect’s house in Marikina.

The HPG is preparing complaints against the suspect for reckless imprudence resulting in physical injuries and damage to property as well as abandonment of one’s victim.

HPG director Brig. Gen. Rommel Batangan asked the Land Transportation Office to revoke the driver’s license of Singh.

Even if he personally apologized to the victim, Batangan said Singh should face the consequences for leaving Aya-ay instead of helping the policeman.

Police impounded the suspect’s SUV.