MANILA, Philippines – At least three suspected members of an organized crime group were killed in a shootout with Binangonan police early Saturday, according to Police Senior Superintendent Manuel Cesar A. Prieto, Rizal provincial director.
In an interview with Radyo Inquirer 990AM, Prieto said the incident happened in Barangay (village) Macamot at dawn.
Prieto said the shooting started after the unnamed suspects, who were trying to extort money from their victim who was not identified for security reasons, tried to flee on board a black Toyota Corolla with plate number ZBJ-625 when they realized that they were discovered.
Prieto said the suspects fired at police who were pursuing them with the chase ending in Barangay (village) Macamot.
Prieto said the victim had asked for their help, showing them the text messages from the suspects who threatened to abduct the victim or his family if he would not give money.
Prieto said they coordinated with the Police Anti-Crime Emergency Response (Pacer) in Camp Crame who promptly set up a surveillance and apprehension team.
Prieto said the first pay off was scheduled at 11 p.m. Friday in a mall in Cainta, Rizal but was reset by the suspects to about 1:30 a.m. in Binangonan.
Prieto said the victim was supposed to pay P200,000 but on their advice would have handed the suspects fake P100 bills.
For the full interview, listen to Radyo Inquirer 990AM.