MPD official hits 'rubout' claims on suspect's death

MANILA, Philippines - A Manila Police District official slammed yesterday insinuations that the death of a robbery suspect in the MPD Station 1 Wednesday was a rubout.

Chief Superintendent Alexander Navarette, station commander, said Michael Dadula, 27, grabbed Police Officer 3 Marianito Navida’s 9mm pistol while he was being interrogated. Dadula tried to shoot Navida, but the gun’s safety lever was on.

“I heard the commotion inside my office so I checked outside and saw Dadula pointing the gun at Navida. He tried to fire the gun but it did not go off. He also tried to shoot me so I did what was best in the situation,” said Navarette, a decorated police officer.

Dadula died at the Tondo General Hospital from three gunshot wounds.

The suspect was arrested after allegedly robbing Jinky Mercado, a student, in a passenger jeepney. Mercado identified Dadula as the man who took her P5,500, but the suspect denied the allegation.

Police records show Dadula has been in and out of jail for various offenses.