Car theft ring leader hurt in Antipolo shootout

MANILA, Philippines - A suspected leader of an auto theft ring was wounded during a shootout with policemen in Antipolo City Wednesday night.

Criminal Investigation and Detection Group chief Director Benjamin Magalong said Ronan Rocha was brought to the Amang Rodriguez Medical Center in Marikina City for treatment.

Meanwhile, Magalong said Rocha's two companions- Joseph Colalco and Marcial Tagal - were arrested after the brief gunfight with police officers at a gas station along Marcos Highway, Brgy. Mayamot, Antipolo City.

Magalong said authorities recovered a Mitsubishi Montero, a calibre 38 revolver, and a fragmentation grenade from the scene.

Rocha's two companions are under the custody of the operating Antipolo police.

Rocha’s group are facing charges of illegal possession of firearms and explosives and car theft.