3 cops killed and four others wounded in the incident
Ann Tan
TACLOBAN CITY– Samar Governor Sharee Ann Tan expressed her grief on the shooting incident in Sta. Margarita that resulted in the deaths of three police personnel and the wounded of four others.
The governor, who condemned the incident, also offered her condolences to the loved ones of the three police officers who were killed in the shooting incident in Barangay Mahayag last Wednesday (Jan.31).
“I am saddened to hear about the untimely demise of our three valiant police officers, who have fallen in the line of duty,” she said in a statement.
“In behalf of the people of Samar, we convey our sincerest condolences to the families of PMSg Paul Terence Paclibar, PSSg Christian Tallo, and PCpl Eleazar Estrelles,” Tan added.
The police officers were in Mahayag to serve warrants of arrest against four suspects in the killing of a village chairman back in 2015.
The suspects, later identified to belong to the Ampoan crime group, fired at the police officers aided by their members who were also in the area.
Tan encourages the people of Samar to honor their lives, selflessness, and bravery as offer prayers for their eternal repose.
She also said that the tragic incident may be a reminder to always exercise prudent judgment and execute well-planned and coordinated operations to prevent casualties and the unnecessary loss of life.
“We continue to strongly condemn and stand against violence in our province,” Tan stressed.
Tan is hopeful that justice may prevail for the fallen officers and wounded policemen, and prays for peace and solidarity in this challenging time.
(LIZBETH ANN A ABELLA)
