Cop gunned down in Parañaque

MANILA, Philippines — A member of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) was shot dead by motorcycle-riding men in Parañaque City on Tuesday night.

Cpl. Michael Banaag, detailed at the NCRPO Regional Mobile Force Battalion, died at the scene from gunshots to the body.

Reports said Banaag received death threats when he was assigned with the anti-drug unit of the Manila Police District (MPD).

An investigation by the Southern Police District showed that Banaag was on a motorcycle along Ibay street, East Service Road when the assailants fired at him at around 7:15 p.m.

Witnesses told investigators that when Banaag fell to the ground, the suspects alighted from the motorcycle and made sure that the he was dead.

Police said they recovered 9mm and .45-caliber bullet casings at the scene.

Probers said they have yet to determine the suspects’ identities and motive for the killing.

Previous charges

Banaag reportedly faced charges of robbery, extortion, grave threats and violation of the anti-violence against women and children law during his stint at the MPD.

An administrative complaint was also filed against Banaag before the National Police Commission after Onel Martinez accused him and his brother, Jethro, of robbery and illegal detention.

Banaag arrested Martinez on trumped-up drug charges and allegedly demanded P100,000 from the victim’s wife in exchange for his release.