19-8-2023 (MANILA) Tragedy struck in Manila as two individuals lost their lives and three others, including two police officers, were wounded in a shooting incident involving armed assailants on a motorcycle, according to Philippine authorities on Saturday.
The incident unfolded shortly before 10 p.m. local time on Friday when the police team attempted to stop the two suspects on a motorcycle at a checkpoint. As the officers were conducting their routine inquiries and inspecting the motorcycle, one of the suspects reportedly brandished a .45 caliber firearm and opened fire on the police personnel.
A fierce exchange of gunfire ensued, resulting in the driver of the motorcycle being fatally shot and the passenger sustaining injuries. Additionally, both on-duty police officers suffered gunshot wounds to the head. They are currently receiving medical treatment and are in the process of recovery at a nearby hospital.
Tragically, an innocent bystander, a female resident in the vicinity, was struck by a stray bullet in the head. Despite being rushed to a city hospital, she was pronounced dead.
Motorcycle-riding criminals, often wearing helmets and operating in pairs, have been known to engage in various illegal activities, targeting pedestrians on the streets of the Philippines. These incidents serve as a grim reminder of the dangers posed by such criminal elements in the community. Authorities continue their efforts to combat these criminal activities and maintain public safety.