Suspect in stabbing taxi driver known

CEBU, Philippines - Police has identified the man who stabbed a taxi driver in sitio Kalmar, Barangay Lawaan I, Talisay City last Saturday.

The suspect was identified as Alex Rangkas, an ex-convict and a resident of Barangay Lawaan. He was identified by witnesses as the one who tried to rob Angel Gapate, 46, the driver of Sheena taxi.

Rangkas, who pretended to be a passenger, stabbed Gapate several times when the driver tried to fight him. Gapate was able to get off his taxi and seek help from bystanders.

Initial investigation conducted PO3 Benedicto Lasque, PO2 Roy Lofranco and PO1 Euwen Pitogo revealed that Rangkas is hiding in Toledo City where his common-law wife is living.

Supt. Eddie Recamara, chief of the Talisay City Police Station, said Rangkas has just been released from the Talisay City Detention and Rehabilitation Center for a robbery charge.

Recamara said charges for robbery with homicide are being prepared against Rangkas. - THE FREEMAN