A police officer was killed while another was seriously wounded after a drug suspect allegedly grabbed a service firearm and opened fire during an anti-illegal drugs operation late Wednesday night, May 6, in Surigao City.
Authorities identified the slain officer as Charito J. Gepulla, 38, a Police Staff Sergeant and resident of Barangay Magallanes, Claver, Surigao del Norte. Wounded in the incident was John Paul M. Lesmoras, 26, a patrolman from Lenentian, Cantilan, Surigao del Sur.
The shooting happened around 10:30 p.m. in Sitio Cayutan, Purok 2, Barangay Cagniog, during a buy-bust operation conducted by personnel of the Surigao del Norte Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit (SDN PDEU).
According to the police report, the operation targeted a suspected drug personality identified only as alias “Ronron Maturan,” who reportedly also uses the Facebook name “Chicano Ributa.” The suspect was reportedly the subject of a pre-operation activity coordinated with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.
Investigators said the transaction had already been completed and the suspect was allegedly handcuffed when he suddenly managed to seize the issued firearm of PSSG Gepulla.
The suspect then allegedly shot the officers at close range, hitting Gepulla on the right side of his abdomen. Amid the commotion, intelligence operatives attempted to subdue and arrest the suspect, but he allegedly fired again, wounding Patrolman Lesmoras in the left knee and right arm.
Both officers were rushed to the hospital, but Gepulla later succumbed to his injuries. Lesmoras remains under medical treatment for serious gunshot wounds.
Following the attack, the suspect managed to escape, prompting authorities to launch an extensive manhunt operation. Police also established checkpoints along possible exit routes in and out of Surigao City to prevent the suspect from fleeing.
The incident has raised serious concerns over operational safety during anti-drug operations, particularly involving high-risk suspects even after they have reportedly been restrained.
As of Thursday, authorities continue pursuing the suspect while further investigation into the deadly encounter is ongoing.