Cop, suspect slain in Nueva Ecija drug sting

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga, Philippines — A police officer and a suspected drug pusher were killed in a drug bust in Nueva Ecija on Monday night. 

Chief Superintendent Amador Corpus, Central Luzon police director, identified the fatalities as Police Officer 1 Mariano Emmanuel Caparas of the General Tinio police and a certain Abet.

Abet was shot dead after he fired at Caparas when the suspect sensed he had sold shabu to undercover agents in Sitio Saudi, Barangay Pias, reports reaching Corpus’ office showed. 

A 9mm pistol, a motorcycle and a sachet of shabu were reportedly recovered from Abet.

“This is unfortunate... one of our members was killed in line with our diligent efforts to stop the proliferation of illegal drugs... We will continue to be relentless in our campaign at all costs,” Corpus said.

Philippine National Police chief Director General Oscar Albayalde gave assurance that the family of Caparas would receive all benefits given to police personnel killed in the line of duty.

“The death of Caparas does not diminish our... resolve to accomplish our mission against illegal drugs and crime... His heroism inspires us to continue the fight with deeper commitment and dedication,” Albayalde said.

At least 87 police officers have been killed in anti-drug operations since February. – Ramon Efren Lazaro, Raymund Catindig