Driver of vehicle involved in Cavite City shootout now in police custody

The driver of the vehicle involved in the shootout in Cavite City, which killed a member of the Philippine National Police - Highway Patrol Group, is now in police custody.

Authorities on Monday said the driver, identified as Reymund De Leon Zuñiga, surrendered and was turned over to Police Lieutenant Colonel Franco Allex Reglos, chief of Cavite City police, on Sunday night.

According to PNP-HPG chief Police Brigadier General Alexander Tagum, criminal complaints would be filed against Zuñiga for allegedly being an "accessory" to the crime.

"Presently nasa kustodiya siya ng Highway Patrol Group and today he will be facing criminal cases na ifafile natin for his part during that incident," Tagum said.

The vehicle was also turned over to the police for investigation and proper disposition.

Reports said police officers were inspecting a vehicle with no plate number and conduction sticker as part of their anti-carnapping operations when the shootout happened.

The driver and passenger of the vehicle reportedly claimed to be members of the Philippine Navy, but they declined to present any identification cards when asked.

One Methusael Brown Cebrian then alighted from the vehicle and reportedly fired shots using a Bushmaster automatic rifle. Tagum said Cebrian was a businessman.

"He is actually a businessman na husband ng isang matatawag nating middle-grade officer ng Philippine Navy na assigned sa naval post sa Sangley..." Tagum said.

Police Master Sergeant Julius Arcalas was killed in the incident while one street sweeper Eduardo Magbana was wounded.

Cebrian was also killed in the shootout. — RSJ, GMA News