Cop kills drunk for attempted robbery

MANILA, Philippines - A policeman shot dead one of three drunk men who allegedly tried to rob him and his son in Cubao, Quezon City Sunday afternoon.

Police Officer 2 Joelen Rafael, 37, surrendered at Camp Karingal shortly after the attack on him and his 15-year-old deaf-mute son, during which he shot and killed Asisclo Pacaul, 32, said Quezon City Police District (QCPD) director Senior Superintendent Richard Albano.

Rafael, who has a small jewelry business, met his financier along Stanford street in Barangay E. Rodriguez and was preparing to drive his motorcycle when Pacaul and his two drinking buddies accosted him at around 3 p.m., according to Police Officer 2 Hermogenes Capili.

Pacaul allegedly demanded that Rafael give up his silver necklace, unaware that Rafael was a policeman, Capili said.

Rafael tried to get away, but Pacaul punched him, causing a cut below the policeman’s left eye, according to QCPD homicide investigation chief Inspector Elmer Monsalve.

Pacaul reportedly continued to attack Rafael as the two other drunk men – who remain unidentified – tried to snatch the duffle bag of Rafael’s son, who was injured in the scuffle. The two fled when Rafael shot Pacaul thrice. 

Rafael inadvertently left behind his .40 caliber pistol when he and his son left the area and went to Camp Karingal.

It was not clear yet whether Pacaul’s family would press charges against the policeman.