‘Nanlaban’ in illegal gambling raid, man shot dead by cops; 5 others arrested

September 11, 2017 - 5:37 PM
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Reuters file photo of a crime scene tape.

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga – Police gunned down a suspected operator of illegal numbers game, known in the underworld as “bookies,” when he allegedly traded shots with them during a raid at a gambling den in Barangay Bahay Pare, Candaba, Pampanga Saturday. Five persons were arrested.

Senior Supt. Joel Consulta, director of the Pampanga Provincial Police Office (PPO), identified the fatality as Rolando Yambao, 35, alias “Barak,” alleged leader of “Balagatas Criminal Gang”.

Arrested were Lilibeth Mariano Yambao; Manolito de la Cruz Villorente; Victorino Bulacon de la Cruz; Reggie Roberto Bernardino; and Paul Anthony Munsayac Ignacio, all residents of the said place.

Police said Yambao led a criminal gang operating in nearby Baliuag, Bulacan, who venture into illegal gambling and illegal drugs. His original base of operations is in Pampanga area.

“Balagtas Criminal Group was placed under tight surveillance by the police following reports on its involvement in illegal gambling and prohibited drugs,” said Consulta.

Yambao’s group, Consulta said, continued its unlawful activities despite warnings by the police.

On Saturday morning, Yambao and his group were cornered by the raiding team led by Supt. Michael Masangkay. Instead of giving up peacefully, the group allegedly opened fire at the position of the lawmen.

Yambao, police said, suffered gunshot wounds in different parts of his body.

Consulta said an exchange of gunfire ensued, in the process killing Yambao. The other suspects yielded peacefully.

Found beside Police said they found on Yambao a calibre .45 pistol and ammunition for said firearm.

Policemen also recovered bundles of papelitos used in illegal numbers game operation and 19 sachets containing white crystalline substance believed to be methamphetamine hydrochloride (shabu) and P20,349 in cash.

Consulta said two of Yambao’s aides eluded arrest and are now being hunted by the local police.