2 suspected robbers killed in predawn encounter

At least two suspected motorcycle-riding robbers were killed in a predawn shootout with police in Manila’s Tondo district Thursday. The Manila Police District Station 2 said the two tried to shoot it out with police when they were flagged down, radio dzBB’s Rodil Vega reported. Recovered from the two were handguns, a wallet with P3,000, and a gold necklace, according to a separate report on dzRH radio. One of the suspects was shot in the face, the dzRH report added. An initial investigation showed the two held up one Michael Arieta, who was in the area after meeting with a Facebook friend. Police flagged down the suspects but the two allegedly tried to flee and fired at the police, who gave chase and cornered them at Moriones corner Tutuban Streets. While the two were not immediately identified, one was described as wearing a bonnet and a black shirt while the other was wearing a white shirt. Police have been on alert against robbers and burglars especially as the Christmas season draws closer. — LBG, GMA News