MANILA, Philippines — A drunk Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) enforcer was hurt after an altercation with a Manila policeman on Tuesday night.
Based on an initial investigation of the Manila Police District (MPD), SPO1 Michael Pastor, a resident of Tagaytay Street in Caloocan City, was on his way to the MPD headquarters aboard a motorcycle when another rider suddenly crossed and nearly hit him.
Reports said Pastor decided to let the situation go and continue on his ride along Biak na Bato Street upon realizing that the rider, later identified as Abrahan Nuqui, an MMDA enforcer and resident of Barangay 249 Tondo Manila, was drunk.
However, Nuqui — who headed towards the same street, thought Pastor was following him. He stopped. While cursing, Nuqui confronted the police officer, asking if Pastor does not know him.
Despite a calm introduction from Pastor, and intervention of his brother-in-law Barangay Chairman Ronaldo del Rosario, the MMDA enforcer still shouted invectives at Pastor and the barangay official.
Del Rosario’s wife eventually managed to get hold of Nuqui and calm the situation. But as soon as Nuqui got loose, he started punching Pastor, who fell on the pavement.
Nuqui also started to reach for Pastor’s bag — where his service firearm was placed. However, the policeman got his bag and managed to fire at the MMDA personnel.
Witnesses said that despite a wound on his shoulder, Nuqui still tried to assault Pastor. The injured traffic enforcer was brought to Metropolitan Hospital for medical treatment.
Nuqui was so drunk that authorities could not conduct an intoxication test on him.
Pastor, who sustained bruises and concussion, turned over his gun and surrendered to Moriones Station Commander Supt. Dave Mejia and his direct supervisor Sr. Insp. Henry Navarro after the incident. He is facing a case of direct assault for firing at Nuqui. /kga