A 21-year-old man was arrested while his accomplice remains at large after they allegedly evaded a checkpoint in Pasig City, leading to a chase and shootout that left him wounded.
The Eastern Police District (EPD) said the incident occurred at around 8 p.m. on Friday, May 1, while personnel of the Pasig City Police Sub-Station 4 were conducting a checkpoint along Elisco Road in Barangay Kalawaan.
During the checkpoint, officers flagged down the suspects riding a black Honda Click motorcycle, with the arrested suspect identified as “John” as the backrider. However, they fled instead of complying with the procedure.
It prompted authorities to chase the suspects. However, a threat ensued when John allegedly drew a firearm and fired at the responding officers, who returned fire in self-defense, hitting him on the foot.
John was arrested, while the motorcycle driver, who remains unidentified, managed to escape.
Authorities recovered a 9mm Norinco pistol with a chambered round and four live rounds, along with a white plastic bag containing about 294 grams of suspected dried marijuana leaves worth P35,280 from John.
He is now under police custody and will face charges for violations of Republic Act 10591, Republic Act 9165, and disobedience to an agent of a person in authority.
EPD District Director Brig. Gen. Aden T. Lagradante lauded the responding officers for their action, emphasizing that their alertness on the streets is vital in preventing crime.
“This operation is a clear victory for public safety. By ridding our streets against these kind motor riders whose intention is to find opportunities to commit crimes at any given point, we should not be caught off-guard. Rather, I directed all commanders to ensure vigilance and to stay focused while performing duties,” he said.
He also emphasized the importance of proactive enforcement, saying, “This significant accomplishment is the direct result of intelligence-driven policing and a steadfast commitment to the PNP’s core mandate of protecting the sanctity of life. The district will remain relentless in its pursuit of those who think they can evade the law within the Metro East.”