Cop killed in Surigao sting

COTABATO CITY, Philippines — A drug suspect shot dead a police officer and wounded another during a sting in Surigao City on Wednesday.

S/Sgt. Charito Gepulla of the Surigao del Norte police drug enforcement unit died at the scene of the incident that occurred in Barangay Cagniog.

Gepulla’s companion, Pat. John Paul Lesmoras, was rushed to a hospital for treatment of a gunshot wound.

Reports said the suspect, identified as Ronron Maturan, grabbed the firearm of Gepulla and shot the officers after sensing that he was dealing with police undercover agents.

A manhunt was launched for the suspect who fled after the incident.