Suspected drug pusher slain in Laguna

SAN PEDRO CITY — A suspected illegal drug pusher was killed in a police shootout in San Pablo City, Laguna, police officials said Sunday.

The slain suspect was identified as Alexander Minalang, 41, and a resident of this city, in a report from Laguna police intelligence chief Major Ryan Jay Orapa.

Police said he was also a member of the so-called Castro drug group that operated mostly in the third district of the province.

According to the police, Minalang agreed to meet with undercover operatives in Barangay San Francisco in San Pablo around 9:30 p.m. on Saturday.

Police claimed Minalang must have sensed he was dealing with cops after he suddenly drew and fired a gun. This forced policemen to retaliate.

Minalang was taken to the provincial hospital in the city but died later.

Police said they recovered 13 grams of suspected “shabu” (crystal meth) worth about P89,700.