THREE days after a drug suspect was killed by the anti-illegal drug operatives in Jasaan, Misamis Oriental, another suspected drug personality who allegedly fought back died in a drug bust in El Salvador City on Friday, September 7.
Police killed a certain Arnel Saguing in Tuburan, Poblacion, El Salvador City.
Initial investigation disclosed that the suspect drew and fired his gun at the anti-drug operatives, forcing the authorities to return fire.
The suspect was rushed to a clinic in the city but he was declared dead on arrival.
Police said they recovered three sachets of suspected shabu (methamphetamine hydrochloride) and the suspect's 38 revolver.
On September 4, members of the Jasaan town police killed a suspected drug personality who was identified as Antonio Dulas.
Superintendent Surki Serenas, spokesperson of the Police Regional Office (PRO)-Northern Mindanao, said the Regional Internal Affairs Service (RIAS) will have to investigate the incident to check whether the operatives follow the rules of engagement and the police operational procedure.
"We are deeply saddened with the unintentional loss of life. If it could be avoided, we would certainly opt for that to prevent this rather grim picture of our police anti-illegal drugs campaign," Serenas said.
"However, we could only respond to the stimulus of every situation. When our operating troops are in clear and present danger, they take the last option and that is to protect themselves," he added.