A police officer was killed while another was injured after a suspect in a buy-bust operation resisted arrest and shot them in Surigao City.

The Police Regional Office-Caraga (PRO-13) identified the fatality as Staff Sergeant Charito Gepulla. His colleague, Patrolman John Paul Lesmoras, sustained injuries.

PRO-13 said the operation was carried out evening on May 6, 2026, against the suspects identified as alias “Ronron,” 23, and alias “Ric,” 45, both residents of Barangay Cagniog.

Police said that after Ronron was restrained, he reportedly resisted violently, took the firearm of one of the policemen forcibly, and opened fire at the police team.

Gepulla was hit fatally in the right side of his abdomen.

The suspect then fled toward a mountainous area while firing continuously at the cops pursuing him, injuring Lesmoras in the left knee and right arm.

The two police officers were rushed to a hospital but Gepulla was declared dead on arrival.

“The Police Regional Office 13 deeply mourns the loss of our personnel who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the performance of duty. The men and women of PRO13 extend our heartfelt sympathies and deepest condolences to the bereaved family, loved ones, and colleagues of the late PSSg Gepulla. His dedication, courage, and commitment to public service embodied the highest ideals of police service and will always be remembered and honored by the organization,” PRO-13 said.

Early morning the next day, Ric surrendered voluntarily to the Surigao City Police Station. Ronron also turned himself in two hours later to the Tubajon Municipal Police Station.

The firearm the suspect stole from the policeman was also recovered.

Both suspects are now detained and will face charges for murder, frustrated murder, and violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act (RA 9165).

“PRO-13 assures the public hat a thorough investigation and operational assessment are being conducted to establish all circumstances surrounding the incident and to further strengthen existing operational safety measures,” PRO-13 added.