Suspected drug peddler dies in shootout with Pasay cops

MANILA, Philippines — An alleged drug peddler was killed in a gunfight with police officers in Pasay City on Monday night.

Pasay police said suspect Manuel Abonita, 62, alias Manny, was involved in the proliferation of illegal drugs in their barangay. Abonita was also allegedly included in the drugs watchlist.

Members of Pasay police station’s Drug Enforcement Team launched a buy-bust operation against Abonita at Sitio Wella, Barangay 201, Zone 20 at 10 p.m.

An undercover policeman was able to buy “shabu” from Abonita, who subsequently resisted arrest and shot the police officer. But the policeman was able to dodge the bullet and fire back at the suspect, who was injured. Abonita was brought to Pasay City General Hospital but later died.

Recovered from the scene were a cal. 45 pistol with four live ammunition; P30,000 worth of crystal meth; marked money worth P500; and boodle money worth P1,000. /kga