4 dead, 2 wounded in Pagadian jailbreak

A jailbreak Monday afternoon in Pagadian City left at least four people dead and two others wounded, said Pagadian police chief inspector Michael Palermo. Seven prisoners bolted the jail during visiting hours at around 12:40 p.m., according to the chief inspector. In the shoot-out that occurred at the height of the jailbreak, a guard was killed and another wounded. Also wounded was one of the escapees. Those who were able to escape were able to grab the service firearms of the jail guards. In the chase that ensued in the hinterlands of Pagadian City, two other escapees were killed along with another policeman, Palermo said. He said they were armed by two carbine rifles, a .45 caliber pistol, and a revolver. The fatalities were brought to a funeral parlor in Pagadian City. "Nag-request na kami ng assistance sa 1st Infantry Tabak Division sa Pulakan, Labanagan, Zamboanga del Sur. Kasali na dito ang paggamit ng mga night-vision goggles kasi gabi na at hindi na namin makita ang movement ng lima pang mga nakapuga (We already requested assistance from 1st Infantry Tabak Division in Pulakan, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur. Included is the use of night-vision goggles since its already night and we could no longer see the movement of the five who escaped)," he said. Police officials said the manhunt will last until Tuesday, with the help of residents whom the police requested to stay alert and report any suspicious movement those who escaped. Palermo said the probable escape routes in barangays Bulaton and Maya were under control with residents helping the police and military authorities by sending text messages regarding suspicious people and movements in their areas. Those who escaped are now wanted dear or alive, the chief inspector said. — With Paterno Esmaquel II/VS, GMA News