• THERESA MAE DULMAN
Two suspects were arrested in a hot pursuit operation on Wednesday, after tailing and opening fire on undercover police intelligence operatives along Magsaysay Avenue in Barangay Singcang Airport, Bacolod City.
Authorities identified the apprehended suspects as ‘Bernard,’ 29, a resident of Don Salvador Benedicto, and ‘Romeo,’ 28, a resident of Barangay 2, Bacolod City.
According to police reports, City Intelligence Unit operatives of the Bacolod City Police Office were conducting covert monitoring onboard a Toyota Vios when they noticed the suspects trailing them on a motorcycle.
Upon stopping in front of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) gate, one of the suspects allegedly alighted from the motorcycle, drew a weapon, and fired at one of the police officers.
The other operative immediately returned fire, prompting the gunmen to flee toward Alijis Road.
The ensuing chase, coordinated by the CIU and Police Station 8, culminated in the cornering and arrest of both suspects near Maranatha School along Alijis Road.
Law enforcement recovered an STI International caliber .45 pistol loaded with six live rounds.
Body searches also yielded four sachets of suspected shabu weighing approximately 20 grams, valued at an estimated street price of P136,000, alongside their Rusi motorcycle and a mobile phone.
The suspects are currently held in police custody facing multiple charges, including violations of Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act and Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act.
The Police Regional Office Negros Island Region Acting Regional Director Brig. Gen. Romano Cardiño lauded the operatives for their swift, decisive actions and highlights the commitment of the police personnel to protect the public and uphold the rule of law.*
