Crime gang boss in Isabela killed in gun battle with police

Tabuk City, Kalinga – A man identified as the leader of a dismantled criminal group in Isabela was killed in a gunfight with police who were pursuing him and his accomplices hours after they shot a farmer on April 16 in Delfin Albano.

The slain suspect, whose identity was withheld by the Police Regional Office (PRO) 2 under the alias “Nic,” was identified as the leader of the dismantled Magsanoc Criminal Group and was listed on the drug watchlist.

Nic and his two companions, identified as “Jojo” and “Roger,” were pursued by police after being tagged as responsible for the attack on a farmer in Purok 6, Calinaoan Sur, Delfin Albano. The victim, who sustained gunshot wounds, was rushed to the hospital and is currently recuperating.

Upon being alerted to the incident, various police units launched a hot pursuit operation and caught up with the three suspects in Barunbun, Sto. Tomas, Isabela, hours after the shooting. The encounter resulted in a shootout between the two groups, inflicting fatal injuries on Nic and leading to his death.

Jojo, identified as a high-value drug personality, and Roger, both residents of Isabela, were taken into police custody for the filing of appropriate charges.

PRO2 reported that authorities are conducting further investigation into the incident and that the crime scene was processed by the Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO).

PBGen. Antonio Marallag Jr., PRO2 Regional Director, stated that the swift police response demonstrates their commitment to countering criminal activities and maintaining peace and order in communities.