Man killed in Argao shootout

CEBU, Philippines - A suspected level two drug pusher was killed in an encounter with the police in Barangay Talo-ot, Argao, Cebu yesterday afternoon.

Fritchie Gecala, 25, suffered from multiple gunshot wounds in his head and hands after he engaged in a shootout with the elements of the Argao Police Station who implemented a search warrant against him issued by Judge Maximo Perez of Regional Trial Court Argao Branch 26 for violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act.

Argao Police Station chief, Senior Inspector Alejandro Batobalonos, said they received information that Gecala was armed and dangerous.

Batobalonos said that they were accompanied by the members of the Special Weapons and Tactics team, who served as the blocking force of the policemen and were already deployed at the back Gecala’s house.

Batobalonos shared that when they arrived at Gecala’s residence, they saw him outside his house and informed him that they had a search warrant.

Gecala then entered his house and the police went after him.

When the authorities were about to enter Gecala’s house, the suspect shot at them first. Batobalonos said that fortunately they were able to hide behind the door.

 “Milabay sa akong ulo ang bala, hapit gyud mao mibalos na lang pud mi kay nakita man namo ang ulo niya,” he said.

Batobalonos added that Gecala even attempted to get a grenade inside his pocket but the policemen were able to fire at him.

The police recovered a .45 pistol used by Gecala, a grenade, and illegal drugs worth P147, 500 inside the house.  — (FREEMAN)