Task force formed to probe killing of Tanauan Mayor Halili

Police on Monday formed a task force to look into the killing of Tanauan City Mayor Antonio Halili, who was shot dead from afar while attending the flag ceremony at the city hall, radio dzBB's Rod Vega reported on Dobol B sa News TV.

Chief Superintendent Edward Carranza, Calabarzon police chief, also ordered a review of all CCTV footage from the area to determine if any caught sight of the suspect or his possible companions.

Several businesses near the city hall will also be covered by the investigation to determine the position of the suspect.

Operation Iron Curtain or a dragnet operation was also initiated to track down the gunman.

The report, citing the police, said an M-14 rifle may have been used to shoot Halili from a distance. The rifle may be equipped with a telescope for long-range shooting and is used by the Philippine Army and Special Action Force.

Halili, controversial for his "shame campaign" on drug suspects, was declared dead on arrival at 8:45 a.m. at the CP Reyes Medical Hospital following the shooting. —Rie Takumi/KBK, GMA News