Gun-for-hire gang leader slain in clash

BATANGAS, Philippines – The suspected leader of a gun-for-hire group was killed in an encounter with the police in Bauan town yesterday.

Leonilo Bantugon died while being treated at the Bauan Medicare Hospital.

Bantugon shot it out with policemen serving warrants for his arrest at around 9 a.m., said Superintendent Leopoldo Cabanag, Batangas police director.

San Pablo Regional Trial Court Branch 29 Judge Agripino Morga had issued at least 16 warrants.

Bantugon’s group was also alleged to be behind paihi or fuel pilferage in Batangas.