BAGUIO CITY – A 33-year-old man, identified as the No. 1 Top Most Wanted Person at the Station Level, was apprehended by operatives following an intensive manhunt operation on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, in Km. 3, Marcos Highway, Bakakeng Central, Baguio City.
The accused, who shot his 28-year-old live-in partner, was found in possession of illegal drugs during his arrest.
Reports indicate that on July 7, 2024, a jealous argument between the couple escalated, leading the man to shoot the victim in the neck inside their condominium in Barangay Bakakeng Sur.
He brought his partner to Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center (BGHMC) for emergency treatment but fled right after.
The victim suffered Neck Fracture resulting in Severe Spinal Cord Injury.
After a successful operation to remove the bullet lodged into her neck, the police were able to send it to Baguio City Forensic Unit for Ballistic Examination.
It was confirmed by the Regional Civil Security Unit-Cordillera Administrative Region (RCSU-CAR) that the suspect is not a licensed firearm holder, which constitutes a violation of Republic Act 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and AmmunitionRegulation Act.
The investigation further disclosed that the accused was also identified as a high-value individual (HVI) on the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) regional watchlist.
The operatives from the Baguio City Police Office-Police Station 10 (BCPO-PS10) implemented the warrant of arrest against the man for violating RA 9262 (Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act) and RA 10591.
In the course of his arrest, officers found a black pouch in his possession containing illegal substances, including three packets of suspected shabu (methamphetamine) and marijuana leaves, along with two weed grinders.
As a result, Baguio police are preparing the necessary documents to press charges against him for violating RA 9165, otherwise known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
“The coordinated efforts of our various units, along with the support from the community, were crucial in apprehending the individual. Our commitment to maintaining peace and order in Baguio City remains steadfast, and we will continue to use all resources at our disposal to ensure the safety of our citizens,” said BCPO city director Francisco B. Bulwayan, Jr.