3 teens arrested for killing 3 in heists

MANILA,Philippines — Three teenage boys are in police custody for their alleged involvement in robberies that left three people dead in Quezon City last month, an official said yesterday.

A 15-year-old and two 17-year-olds were arrested in separate follow-up operations last week, according to Col. Ronnie Montejo, Quezon City Police District director.

Police said the boys first hit the Don C Litson Manok stall along Luzon Avenue, killing food handler Noel Lampito and stealing P20,000 on Oct. 21.

They then tried to rob the Express Lane Minimart and shot dead security guard Reymund Dag-ay and service crew Romeo Econal, 24, on Oct. 27.

The younger boy was wounded after he and his companions allegedly shot it out with police officers along Kapalaran street in Barangay Holy Spirit on Oct. 29.

The two older boys escaped during the shootout, but were arrested on Nov. 1.

Montejo said the gang is led by a certain John Paul, another teenager, who is the subject of a manhunt.