A robbery suspect was killed in an armed encounter with an off-duty police officer on Thursday, April 25, inside a private subdivision in Barangay Malino, City of San Fernando.
Initial investigation showed that the unidentified suspect allegedly climbed a metal fence and forcibly entered a private residence.
The incident was reportedly witnessed by Antonio Zabat, a neighbor, who immediately alerted his son, Patrolman Ray Lemuel Zabat of the Philippine National Police.
Police report said that the homeowner was awakened and saw the suspect inside the house holding two mobile phones.
As the suspect attempted to flee by climbing back over the fence, he was intercepted by Patrolman Zabat.
During the confrontation, the suspect allegedly drew a firearm from his waistband, prompting the off-duty officer to fire a single shot.
The suspect was hit in the abdomen which caused his instant death.
Police said they are conducting a follow-up operation to identify the suspect and determine whether he had accomplices or links to other crimes in the area.
Colonel Jay Dimaandal, Pampanga Police Provincial Office Director, urged the public to help the local police in crime prevention.
“We call on the public to remain alert and to report any suspicious activity to authorities. Let this serve as a clear warning to those who continue to disrupt the peace—we will not tolerate criminality in our province, and we will pursue justice without hesitation,” Dimaandal said.