Drug suspect killed in police ‘shootout’

CEBU, Philippines —  A drug suspect was killed during an alleged shootout with cops, while his cohort was arrested in Sitio Riverside Lower Lipata, Barangay Linao, Minglanilla, Cebu Thursday evening.

The suspect, Emiliano “Teting” Sanggutan Ranghos, who was listed as a high-value individual (HVI) in illegal drug trade, was shot dead by agents of the Provincial Intelligence Branch (PIB) of Cebu Provincial Police Office in an armed encounter during a buy-bust operation.

Ranghos allegedly pulled out a gun and fired at the cops after he sensed that he was transacting with police operatives, said Police Lieutenant Colonel Marlu Conag, PIB chief.

But the suspect reportedly missed hitting the policemen.

The members of the bust team retaliated, killing Ranghos on the spot.

On the other hand, Ranghos’ alleged cohort identified as Roger Tabalado Gerondalan, 45, a construction worker, was apprehended. Drug charges will be filed against Gerondalan

Recovered from the suspects were illegal drugs weighing 100 grams worth P102,000.

The Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) also recovered one .45 caliber pistol with four live ammunition, one .38 revolver with one live ammunition and two misfired, drug paraphernalia, five empty shells, one metal jacket and one deformed slug from the suspects

Ranghos had a pending warrant of arrest issued by Regional Trial Court Judge Glenda Go of Branch 65 in Talisay City.  KQD (FREEMAN)