4 dead in drug stings

MANILA, Philippines — Four alleged drug dealers were killed in alleged shootouts with police officers in Maguindanao, Pampanga and Nueva Ecija on Sunday.

Brig. Gen. Marni Marcos of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao police said Adrian Amando and Anthony Balleque drew their guns when they sensed they had sold shabu to police officers who posed as buyers in Barangay Upper Capiton, Datu Odin Sinsuat.

Barangay officials said Amando and Balleque were also tagged in contract killings.

Angelito Aguilar, 47, and Jeffrey Domingo allegedly shot it out with anti-narcotics agents in Barangay Lagundi, Mexico and Pantoc, Aliaga, Nueva Ecija, respectively. – Ric Sapnu