Man arrested after shootout with police in Romblon

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ODIONGAN, Romblon — A 29-year-old man was arrested after allegedly engaging in a shootout with police in Barangay Tabobo-an, Odiongan, authorities said.

According to Police Lieutenant Colonel Ledilyn Ambonan, Romblon Police Provincial Office spokesperson, personnel from the Odiongan Municipal Police Station responded on the afternoon of April 5 after receiving reports that the suspect was armed with a 12-gauge shotgun and threatening neighbors in the area.

Upon arrival, the suspect allegedly opened fire at responding officers, prompting a brief exchange of gunfire.

During the incident, a civilian was hit by a stray bullet and was immediately rushed to a hospital by personnel of the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.

Police said the suspect’s shotgun later malfunctioned, but he reportedly drew a short firearm and fired again before fleeing toward the mountainous portion of Barangay Tabobo-an.

A hot pursuit operation was launched by joint elements of the Odiongan Municipal Police Station, the Romblon Provincial Mobile Force Company SWAT Team and Patrol Base Romblon Delta Company of the 76th Infantry Battalion.

At around 10 p.m. on April 6, the suspect surrendered in Sitio Hacienda, Barangay Progreso Weste following negotiations conducted by the Romblon Provincial Mobile Force Company and Odiongan police.

Authorities recovered from the suspect a 12-gauge shotgun and eight 12-gauge cartridges.

He is currently under the custody of the Romblon Provincial Mobile Force Company and is set to be turned over to the Odiongan Municipal Police Station for filing of appropriate charges.

Police said the suspect has yet to provide a statement on the motive behind the incident.