Cops rescue couple, kill 2 captors

CAMP VICENTE LIM, Laguna, Philippines — Two of four suspected kidnappers were killed in an alleged encounter with police officers in Antipolo City, Rizal on Saturday.

The victims, businessman Henry Alfonzo, 53, and his wife Florida, 55, were rescued unharmed, Col. Renato Alba, Rizal police director, said.

Brig. Gen. Edward Carranza, Calabarzon police director, said the couple were snatched from their Honda CRV by unidentified men who blocked their path at about 11:45 p.m. on Friday.

The vehicle of the couple was found abandoned along Sumulong Highway in Barangay Sta. Cruz, prompting the police to set up a blocking force and flash alarm to nearby police stations.

Carranza said the suspects shot it out with police officers when cornered in Barangay Inarawan.

He said an M16 rifle, a shotgun, a caliber .45 pistol and police uniforms were among those recovered from the fatalities.

A manhunt for the two other kidnappers is ongoing.