TACLOBAN CITY — A robbery suspect in Tacloban City was swiftly arrested in a hot pursuit operation, while another man was apprehended in Eastern Samar for illegal discharge of a firearm, in separate police operations on April 26.
Police identified the robbery suspect as alias “Nel,” 28, a driver and resident of Tacloban. He was arrested by personnel of the Tacloban City Police Office–Police Station 2 shortly after allegedly robbing a fruit vendor.
The victim, alias “Jact,” 38, reported that he was walking while using his cellphone when the suspect suddenly approached him, brandished a firearm, and forcibly took his device.
A passing police patrol unit chanced upon the victim immediately after the incident, prompting officers to launch a hot pursuit operation that led to the suspect’s arrest. Authorities recovered the stolen cellphone and seized an unmarked .38 caliber revolver loaded with four live rounds of ammunition.
In a separate incident, police in Can-avid, Eastern Samar arrested a man following a report of illegal discharge of a firearm.
Personnel of the Can-avid Municipal Police Station responded to information from a concerned citizen and apprehended the suspect at the scene. Initial investigation showed the suspect was allegedly intoxicated when the incident occurred.
Police said the suspect reportedly became agitated after being confronted by his wife over his drinking, went outside their residence, and fired his gun. Recovered from his possession were a .357 Magnum revolver, live ammunition, and empty shells.
The two suspects, along with the confiscated firearms, are now under police custody for proper disposition.
Police Regional Office 8 Director PBGen Jason L. Capoy said the prompt response of police units underscores their continued efforts to curb criminality and maintain public safety across Eastern Visayas.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
