Alleged gang member killed in Manila buy-bust

MANILA, Philippines — An alleged member of the Bahala Na Gang was killed in a drug buy-bust operation in Sta. Cruz, Manila, police said Friday.

A police report from the Sta Cruz Police said Reynaldo Pascual alias Ulo, 44, was shot dead during the bust inside the Manila North Cemetery along Blumentritt Street in Barangay 374 on Thursday at around 4:30 p.m.

Police said an undercover agent bought from Pascual some P500 worth of “shabu” and signaled to back-up police officers to make the arrest.

According to police, Pascual apparently sensed that he was dealing with police officers and started shooting. Police officers then returned fire.

Police officers rushed Pascual to the Chinese General Hospital but was declared dead on arrival at around 5:35 p.m.

Recovered from the crime scene were eight sachets containing suspected “shabu,” the marked cash used in the bust, a pouch, a pistol, and three spent 9 mm shells. /muf