KTV owner shot dead in San Juan

MANILA, Philippines - An owner of a KTV bar in San Juan City was shot dead by a lone assassin early yesterday morning.

Reports identified the victim as Maria Luz Lastimoso, 30.

She died while being treated at the San Juan City Medical Center at around 7 a.m.

A waitress identified only as Beth said the gunman bought a stick of cigarette prior to the attack.

She said the suspect entered the KTV and shot the victim at close range.

Witnesses said the assassin escaped on a waiting gray car toward N. Domingo street.

Superintendent Jose Rivera, San Juan police officer-in-charge, refused to give details of the incident that happened outside the Lady Boss KTV located at the corner of F. Blumentritt and Manalo streets in Barangay Batis at past 3 a.m.

Rivera appealed for “understanding” in a text message to The STAR.

He cited several incidents wherein the victims had filed complaints against police officers after their names and addresses were published in newspapers.

“It is a violation of their right to privacy. We suggest that you ask permission from them before coming out with the story to prevent similar incidents in the past,” Rivera said.

When reached for comment on Rivera’s action, National Capital Regional Police Office chief Director Carmelo Valmoria said there are no such instructions for the station commanders and district directors.

“They can provide spot reports to media, except for the information on the motive. If an investigation is ongoing, the details of the probe should not be divulged so as not to compromise the pursuit operation, if there is any,” Valmoria said.