By Alec Go
A police officer and his accomplice involved in the shooting incident that killed a minor and injured another individual in Rodriguez, Rizal on Aug. 20 have been arrested, according to the Philippine National Police (PNP).
The prime suspects were identified as off-duty police officer PCpl. Arnulfo Sabillo and Jeffrey Beluan.
In a statement on Aug. 26, the PNP said the suspects were taken into custody immediately after the fatal shooting, while the other personnel of Rodriquez Municipal Police Station’s Community Police Assistance Center No. 5 have been relieved pending investigation.
Both suspects were charged with homicide and attempted homicide on Aug. 22.
Sabillo’s service firearm and a magazine loaded with live ammunition were confiscated.
Police report stated that one of the suspects fired his gun toward one of the victims, identified as John Ace Ompad, after the latter threw his helmet toward the suspects as he resisted their move to stop him from his motorcycle on the way home.
However, the bullet hit the abdomen of Ompad’s brother who had emerged from their house to the scene.
Ompad’s brother, a minor, was declared medically dead while undergoing treatment at East Avenue Memorial Medical Center in Quezon City.
PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. made assurance that justice will be served.
“We are committed to ensuring that the bereaved family finds justice for their deceased loved one,” he said.
“Such actions are deeply regrettable and do not represent the values of the Philippine National Police. We will ensure a thorough and impartial investigation, and appropriate action will be taken against those found responsible,” he added. – gb
