Mob beats up 2 fake cops; 1 dead, 1 hurt

MANILA, Philippines - An angry mob beat up yesterday two fake policemen who reportedly terrorized a neighborhood in Sampaloc, Manila, killing one and injuring the other.

Terence Supnet, 31, and Rochell Pinto, 22, were the subject of complaints by residents of Amelia street for allegedly extorting money from passersby and ambulant vendors.

The residents said the two men were frequently seen wearing police t-shirts bearing the logo of the Special Action Force (SAF).

At past midnight yesterday, residents said the two men – apparently drunk – allegedly challenged people to a fight and tried to molest a girl who passed by.

The attempt angered the men in the neighborhood, and they attacked Supnet and Pinto using knives and blunt objects.

When the mob was dispersed, Supnet was discovered lying on the pavement with stab wounds and head injuries. Pinto suffered abrasions.

The two were rushed to the Ospital ng Sampaloc, where Supnet was declared dead on arrival.

Inspector Rodelio Santos, SAF-National Capital Region duty officer, confirmed the two victims are not police officers.

Police investigators said no one claimed responsibility for the attack on the two fake policemen.