A MAN who held hostage his cousins inside their residence in Sitio Cabangkalan 2, Barangay Bulacao, Cebu City, was shot dead by police Friday evening, June 7.

The suspect, who was allegedly “high” on illegal drugs, was identified as Benjie dela Rosa and a resident of the same area.

Police Major Regino Maramag, chief of the Pardo police, said the suspect allegedly had a misunderstanding with his cousin Steve dela Rosa and Ryan Cardavan for no apparent reason.

The suspect allegedly pointed a gun at the victims and told them to get inside the house or he would shoot them.

The uncle of the suspect, Armando, immediately sought police help.

Responding police heard Benjie say he would shoot his cousins should police intervene. A short negotiation ensued, but the suspect fired shots, prompting police to shoot back and hit the suspect.

He was brought to a hospital for immediate treatment but was declared dead.

The suspect was a noted troublemaker in the area. In July 2014 he was jailed for attempted murder and was released from jail after his case was dismissed in January 2016.

Neighbors had repeatedly complained to Pardo police that the suspect brandished his guns and threatened to shoot them.

Police recovered three firearms from the suspect: a Magnum .357 caliber revolver, .22 caliber revolver and .45 caliber pistol, which he used to hold his relatives hostage. (From AYB OF SUPERBALITA CEBU / VLA)