Manhunt on for tanod over ‘revenge’ shooting

MANILA, Philippines -  The Quezon City Police District (QCPD) launched yesterday a manhunt for a barangay tanod who allegedly shot a couple he accused of killing three persons at an illegal gaming den.

Armando Tahil, a barangay peace and safety officer, is being hunted down by police after he allegedly shot Leonil and Estrella Beth Ernesto in their compound along Laura street in Barangay Old Balara at around 6:45 a.m. yesterday.

Tahil tagged the couple in the killing of Robert Mago, 22, his relative, and two others only identified by police as Anabel and Roy at a nearby shanty at past 5 a.m. yesterday.

The three victims were gunned down allegedly while playing illegal video karera and fruit game machines, which were later confiscated by police.

Eight fired cartridge cases, four deformed bullets and bullet fragments were recovered at the crime scene.

Tahil was allegedly under the influence of liquor when he confronted Leonil, reportedly his first cousin, and was quoted as saying, “Ikaw ang susunod (you are next).”

The suspect then went to his house, located in the same compound, then shot at the couple, who were taken to the East Avenue Medical Center.

Leonil was treated for a gunshot wound in the chest while a bullet grazed Estrella’s head.