A joint follow-up operation by police units in Quezon City and Manila led to the arrest of four suspects, including a minor, linked to the shooting of a Nigerian national in Quezon City earlier this month, authorities said.

The arrests were made at around 8:48 p.m. on 18 December in Barangay 221, Tondo, Manila, following a five-day manhunt triggered by the 13 December shooting along Dr. Garcia Avenue corner Quezon Avenue in Barangay Paligsahan, Quezon City.

Police identified the suspects by their aliases: “Bryan,” “Rodrigo,” and “Reynold,” along with a female child in conflict with the law (CICL). Investigators said the group was part of four armed men riding two motorcycles who shot the victim in the left knee before fleeing the scene.

According to police, the breakthrough came through extensive backtracking and forward tracking of closed-circuit television footage, supplemented by information from a confidential informant. 

Suspect “Bryan” was identified as one of the gunmen. During the arrest, police said the minor attempted to interfere, triggering an escape attempt by “Reynold.” 

The suspect crashed his motorcycle during the attempt and sustained injuries. He was brought to Jose Reyes Memorial Medical Center, where he remains confined under police guard.

Authorities recovered several items during the operation, including one MK2 hand grenade, a Taurus .45-caliber pistol with three live rounds, a Ruger P95 9mm pistol with nine live rounds, four motorcycle helmets, a black sling bag, two mobile phones, and assorted clothing believed to have been used during the shooting.

Police said “Bryan” will face charges for violation of Republic Act 9516, or illegal possession of explosives. “Rodrigo” and “Reynold” will be charged under Republic Act 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act. 

The minor will be charged for obstruction of justice under Presidential Decree 1629, subject to juvenile justice procedures.