Cops kill ‘gun-for-hire’ suspect in Laguna shootout

SAN PEDRO CITY – A suspected member of a gun-for-hire group was killed in a shootout with policemen in San Pablo City, Laguna on Monday afternoon.

Laguna police chief Sr. Supt. Eleazar Matta identified the slain suspect as Marjollan Carandang, also known as “Owee,” a resident of Barangay (village) San Crispin.

Police said Carandang and his companion, Erickson Diangkinay or “Boyong,” were members of the Paz Group, who allegedly take on contract killings while also engaged in local drug trade.

In a text message, Matta said members of the intelligence police conducted a buy-bust operation around 4:30 p.m. in Barangay San Crispin.

Carandang apparently realized he was dealing with police that he drew out a .38 caliber gun and started to shoot. He was killed when police retaliated.

Meanwhile, Diangkinay managed to seek cover and escape, according to police. /kga