'Gun-for-hire' killed in shootout in Argao

An alleged known member of a gun-for-hire died after reportedly engaging in a shootout with a team of responding policemen at 12:15 p.m. in Barangay Jampang, Argao, Cebu on Tuesday, May 27.

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The operation was launched by the Argao Police Station in response to a report by a concerned citizen about an alleged illegal discharge of firearm in the area.

When responding officers arrived at the scene, the suspect reportedly opened fire, prompting the police to return fire that led to the suspect’s death.

Initial investigation revealed that the suspect (name withheld as per police protocol) was an active member of the Comaling Gun-for-Hire Group, a criminal syndicate reportedly established in 2022. The group reportedly engaged in drug trafficking, gun-running, and contract killings.

The group’s leader was arrested in December 2024 and is currently detained at the Cebu City Jail.

Recovered at the crime scene are one unit 9mm pistol without a serial number, one magazine, four live cartridges, four fired cartridges, several unlicensed firearms, tools and equipment used for firearm manufacturing.