HVT killed in Badian; another escapes in Talisay

CEBU, Philippines —  A high-value target died after allegedly shooting it out with the police during a follow-up operation in Barangay Bugas, Badian town, southern Cebu on Monday.

Police identified the victim as Anecito Buhat, 40, a resident of the place.

According to Police Corporal Tirso Sol, desk officer of Badian Police Station, the 2nd Maneuver Platoon FMFC coordinated with their station after arresting a certain Ervin Hermosa in Barangay Cogon, Moalboal town for allegedly selling illegal drugs.

During interrogation, Hermosa allegedly told the police that Buhat was the source of his drugs, prompting Badian police to conduct a follow-up operation.

Sol said that while authorities were still on their way to Barangay Bugas, they met the subject, who in turn allegedly just shot at them.

No one from the police side was hit. On the other hand, Buhat sustained gunshot wound when the police retaliated. He was already dead upon arrival at the hospital.

Sol said while Buhat was being transported to the hospital, police recovered seven medium packs of suspected shabu from his possession.

From the crime scene, police recovered a Colt .45 pistol, a motorcycle, cellphone, among others.

Meanwhile, a high-value target was able to elude arrest during an operation in Sitio Mananga 2, Barangay Tabunok, Talisay City on Monday morning.

Gerry Aleser was the subject of a search warrant issued by RTC Branch 66 Judge Jacinto Fajardo but he was able to escape before authorities arrived.

Despite his escape, police continued to search the premises in the presence of barangay officials, including councilmen Chalmer Lastimosa and Vicente Rabaya.

Police retrieved eight small sachets of suspected shabu weighing 10.24 grams from the house. Even if Aleser managed to evade authorities, he will still face charges for alleged violation of the Dangerous Drugs Act. BANAT News, JMD (FREEMAN)