City cop survives ambush

CEBU, Philippines —  A Cebu policeman who is assigned at the Police Regional Office in Cordillera survived an ambush in Barangay Anonang Norte, Bogo City last Friday afternoon.

The victim is identified as Police Lieutenant Marcelo Cometa Jr., 48, a resident of Barangay Binabag, Bogo City.

In the initial investigation, Cometa was reported to be driving his motorcycle from his residence going to the city proper.

While traversing the national highway in Anonang Norte, a car reportedly stayed close to him and the passengers shot the policeman.  The police have yet to determine the caliber of firearms used in shooting the cop.

Cometa was hit in his right arm that caused him to lose his balance.  He was thrown off in a concrete pavement.  He also sustained bruises on his face.

He was immediately brought to the Cebu Provincial Hospital in Bogo City.  He was already ruled out of danger and is now recuperating.

Police Master Sergeant Victor Avenido, who is investigating the incident, said they are now looking for the tricycle driver who was able to witness the incident, since they were not able to get any closed-circuit television (CCTV) footages in the area.

Bogo City Police Chief Emelie Santos said they are looking at the victim’s profession as the possible motive in the attempt on his life.

Cometa has been assigned to the Bogo City Police Station before he was transferred to Cordillera.

 “Ang among duda work-related, naa siguroy nasuko ani niya katong iyang mga nadakpan sauna kay na-assign man ni siya diri sa Bogo mga 2010-2011,” Santos said. — GAN  (FREEMAN)