Drug suspect slain in anti-crime drive

MANILA, Philippines - A drug suspect was killed in an anti-crime operation in Quezon City yesterday, during which policemen were met with gunfire as they entered their target area.

Freddie Nicole, 36, was killed in an ensuing encounter in Barangay Pinyahan, said Quezon City Police District (QCPD) director Senior Superintendent Joel Pagdilao.

The operation was conducted just before 7 a.m. by teams headed by QCPD Station 10 commander Superintendent Limuel Obon.

Pagdilao said the anti-crime drive was conducted following a recent shooting, robberies targeting passengers of public utility vehicles and drug deals in the area.

Obon said Nicole shot at police officers using a .45 caliber and a 9mm pistol. Police officers recovered the handguns, some bullets and 15 sachets said to contain shabu.

Seven other persons were also arrested on drug charges, Pagdilao said.

Investigators are now looking into reports that Nicole may be involved in the shooting of a couple in the area.