By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — A gunfight occurred at the intersection of Sta. Cruz and Soler Streets in Chinatown in this city late Friday resulted in the tragic deaths of two individuals including a bystander and the prime suspect.
The incident transpired during a police checkpoint operation known as “Oplan Sita.”
The director of the Manila Police District, P/BGen. Andre Dizon identified the primary suspect as Wilfredo Marquez Jr., a security guard.
Another individual involved was Rosemarie Depaudhon Marinas, an innocent bystander, who unfortunately lost her life due to a stray bullet.
She died while receiving medical treatment.
Bobby Alconera, the companion of the deceased suspect, sustained a gunshot wound and was promptly transported to Jose Abad Santos Hospital for medical attention. He is presently receiving treatment and is in police custody.
In a related development, two officers from the Tactical Motorcycle Rider Unit (TMRU) of the MPD Police, namely P/Cpl Raymond Ocampo and P/Cpl Raymart Laurena, also sustained injuries from the encounter. They were swiftly taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Initial findings from the investigation reveal that MPD officers were conducting a routine checkpoint operation, referred to as “Oplan Sita,” at the junction of Sta. Cruz and Soler Streets.
The suspects, riding Kawasaki motorcycles, were instructed to halt for a standard inspection. However, instead of complying, both riders brandished firearms and opened fire at the police officers, igniting a firefight.
The Manila Police District continues its efforts to ascertain the true identities of the suspects, and updates on this matter are pending. (ai/mnm)
