Cop takes leak, catches rob suspect

MANILA, Philippines - A rookie policeman, who went to a money transfer shop in Quezon City to use the restroom, shot and wounded a suspected robber on Thursday afternoon.

Jeric Licudan, 36, was allegedly one of the two men who robbed an LBC outlet at the corner of Tandang Sora and Visayas Avenues at past 4 p.m., said Quezon City Police District (QCPD) director Chief Superintendent Richard Albano.

Licudan was shot by Police Officer 1 Jojo Basquinas, who is with the QCPD Station 3, he added.

Basquinas’ superior, Station 3 commander Superintendent Michael Macapagal, said Licudan and a companion entered the shop, posing as customers. Licudan then pointed his gun at an employee.

However, the employee managed to run to the back of the shop, where Basquinas was taking a leak.

The employee then informed Basquinas about the robbery. When Basquinas went out, Licudan was surprised.

He shot at the policeman but his gun misfired. Basquinas retaliated, hitting Licudan in the right arm and in the upper right part of his torso.

Police said follow-up operations are ongoing to arrest Licudan’s companion, who escaped.