A robbery in Binondo, Manila, ended in a shootout late Monday night, July 28, when suspects fired at responding lawmen, leading to the arrest of one and a manhunt for his accomplice, the Manila Police District (MPD) reported on Wednesday, July 30.
The robbery incident happened along Muelle Dela Industria Street near the corner of Juan Luna Street in Binondo, Manila.
At approximately 11:40 p.m., the victim, John Mark Santos, 20, was accosted by two individuals while walking along the busy street.
According to Santos, he was suddenly confronted by Eduard Domingo, 26, who was on a motorcycle with a companion.
Domingo reportedly disembarked and threatened Santos with a firearm, demanding his valuables.
The suspects managed to get Santos’ cellphone worth P25,000, his black sling bag valued at P1,500, and a wallet containing P3,500 in cash, along with various identification cards.
In a state of panic, Santos flagged down officers from the Tactical Motorcycle Riding Unit (TMRU), who were passing by the area. He quickly relayed details about the robbery, providing a description of the suspects and the direction in which they fled.
Acting on the information, the TMRU officers initiated a hot pursuit operation. The suspects were spotted still on the motorcycle.
Upon realizing that law enforcement was closing in on them, Domingo reportedly fired his gun at the pursuing officers, prompting them to return fire in self-defense.
A brief exchange of gunfire ensued, during which Domingo was struck in the right leg and fell off the motorcycle.
He was subsequently arrested. However, his accomplice, identified only as Rommel, managed to escape with the stolen items.
A .38-caliber revolver without a serial number, loaded with four live rounds and one spent cartridge, was recovered from Domingo.
Domingo was given immediate first aid and transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Authorities have since launched a follow-up operation to capture Rommel, who is believed to be armed and dangerous.
Domingo is currently facing charges related to robbery with violence, illegal possession of firearms, and attempted murder for firing on the officers.
As of this report, follow-up operations are ongoing to locate the other suspect.
The MPD urges the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities as they continue their search for the second suspect. (Diann Calucin)
