Suspected robber hurt in Pasay shootout

One of four suspects who allegedly robbed two women in Pasay City is in critical condition after engaging in a shootout with policemen early yesterday.

Senior Police Officer 1 Allan Valdez identified the suspect as Michael delos Reyes, 25, the alleged leader of the Sigue-Sigue Sputnik Gang. Delos Reyes, who sustained a gunshot wound in the stomach, is still under observation at the Pasay City General Hospital.

Delos Reyes’ two companions – Mario Angon, 25; and Adrian Esguerra, 19 – were arrested while a fourth suspect escaped.

Initial investigation showed that the robbery happened around 4 a.m. at the corner of Gil Puyat Avenue and Leveriza Street.

Valdez said Genelyn Fuentes, 20, and Nice Cuaton, 18, were waiting for a ride when the suspects robbed them at gunpoint, boarded a green tricycle (UV-2799) and sped off.

The victims shouted and asked for help from policemen in the vicinity.

Senior Police Officer 1 Claro Ventura and his team ran after the suspects, who fired at the lawmen.

Recovered from the group were the victims’ bags, which contained cell phones and an undetermined amount of cash.

Senior Superintendent Marietto Valerio, Pasay police chief, said the group has been operating in the area for sometime. He added that previous victims of the group have been flocking to the police station to lodge a complaint against the arrested suspects.       – Rhodina Villanueva