Balamban: A high-value individual known for illegal firearms trade was killed during an entrapment operation that escalated into an armed confrontation in Calbayog City, Samar Tuesday night. Police identified the suspect by his alias Ron Ron, a jobless male of legal age and a resident of Barangay Looc, Calbayog City. He was the target of a law enforcement operation for alleged violations of Republic Act 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, according to a report shared by the Police Regional Office 8 (PRO-8) on Thursday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the incident occurred in Purok 2, Barangay Rawis at about 9:55 p.m. on Jan. 14. Ron Ron became suspicious during the transaction and allegedly fired at the poseur buyer and arresting officers using a short firearm of unknown caliber. Police operatives returned fire in self-defense, hitting the suspect.

He was rushed by responders of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office to the Calbayog District Hospital, but was declared dead at about 10:20 p.m. Recovered at the scene were a caliber .45 Colt automatic pistol with one live round in the chamber, live ammunition, fired cartridge cases, suspected illegal drugs, and buy-bust money amounting to PHP15,000. The items were turned over for forensic examination as investigations continue.