Joint casing and surveillance operations by the Quezon City Police District, Cavite Provincial Intelligence Unit and the Las Piñas City Police ended the notoriety of the leader of the Bayawak robbery group targeting Spas and health centers.
QCPD Director P/Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan said the encounter in Brgy. Molino 3, Bacoor City, Cavite at 1:30 a.m. of Saturday, 2 December, killed Gelbirth Albios Puerto, 30 years old resident of Kaunlaran Horseshoe Drive, Cavite City.
Puerto, alias "Boss Bay", according to Maranan, was the "Bayawak" robbery and gun-for-hire leader victimizing not only spas but also convenience stores in Metro Manila and Region 4A. He was the subject of a manhunt operation by his men for also staging robberies in Quezon City.
They chanced upon the suspect, riding in a Honda Click without a plate number in front of Nazareth Compound in Barangay Molino 3, Bacoor City, Cavite who upon sensing the presence of police officers following him, stopped his motorcycle, drew his gun, and fired towards the operatives, prompting them to fire back ensuing a firefight which resulted in the death of the suspect.
Recovered at the scene were one caliber 45 pistol inserted with magazine loaded with eight live ammunition; one extra magazine; six empty cartridges; and a black Honda Click motorcycle.
Maranan said the successful operation emphasized the commitment of QCPD to maintaining public safety and eliminating threats posed by organized criminal elements.
"I would like to assure the public, that QCPD will continue to monitor and locate those who are involved in the series of robbery incidents in the city and ensure the safety of all Qcitizens," Maranan told the DAILY TRIBUNE.