Vendor shot dead by NBI agent in Pasig

A vendor was shot dead yesterday by an agent of the National Bureau of Investigation trying to serve him his arrest warrant for possession of illegal drugs in Pasig City.

The NBI claimed the victim, Jamail Mangotara, 37, of corner Main Road and 8th Street, Isla Homes in Bgy. Pinagbuhatan was killed in a shootout. But Mangotara’s relatives insisted it was a "rubout." The victim’s relatives claimed Mangotara was shot while running away from the NBI raiders.

Mangotara sustained gunshot wounds in the back and chest and died while being rushed to the Rizal Medical Center.

Police investigators are still gathering all available information on the incident, which took place along Urbano Velasco Avenue in Bgy. Pinagbuhatan at about 6 a.m.

Elements of the NBI’s Anti-Fraud and Computer Division headed by agent Martin Cruz coordinated with the Eastern Police District for the serving of the arrest warrant against Mangotara for possession of illegal drugs. The warrant was issued by Judge Abraham Boreta of the Pasig City Regional Trial Court.

The NBI agents claimed that Mangotara resisted arrest prompting them to open fire. Responding policemen failed to recover any firearm on Mangotara. "Hindi nga namin alam kung shootout nga ba o rubout," a policeman said. — Non Alquitran