DUMAGUETE CITY -- A former policeman wanted by the law for a pending illegal drugs case was shot by two unidentified suspects on board a motorcycle at sundown yesterday at the Dumaguete port in Barangay Looc.

The fugitive ex-cop, Numeriano Gabo, 43, of Barangay Batinguel, this city, sustained four gunshot wounds and was being treated at the Holy Child Hospital as of press time yesterday. Initial police investigation showed that Gabo was hanging out at the "Welcome" area at the entrance to the port when the suspects fired at him around 5:20 p.m. yesterday.

Gabo sustained four gunshot wounds on different parts of his body and was fighting for his life at the emergency room of the Holy Child hospital.

Police investigation showed the suspects used a 9-millimeter weapon in the attack against Gabo, who, several months ago, was dismissed from the service for alleged involvement in the illegal drugs trade.

Gabo's teenage daughter refused to be interviewed but, in tears, told the Visayan DAILY STAR to go and "ask the police".

An aunt, who asked not to be identified, said she was preparing dinner at her house in Barangay Looc when word reached her from some porters that Gabo, had been shot.

The tearful aunt said she suspects vigilantes, in the attempt on Gabo.

While at the hospital, the police served Gabo an arrest warrant and placed him under tight security.

Police officer Rico Gasalao said the alias warrant of arrest, issued January 3, 2007 by RTC Branch 30 Judge Cresenciano Tan, Jr., had named Gabo as one of the respondents in Criminal Complaint No. 18176, for violation of Section 5, Article II of Republic Act 9165.

The same warrant also named Cristina Compana, et. al., as respondents in the drug-pushing case, Gasalao said.

Compana, who is now at the Dumaguete City jail, is said to be Gabo's live-in partner, Gabo's aunt said.

Gasalao said they had tried to serve the warrant at Gabo's residence in Barangay Batinguel several weeks ago, but, the ex-cop, allegedly armed with a handgun and a hand grenade, eluded arrest.

His children reportedly formed a "human shield", slowing down attempts by the police to arrest Gabo.

The court has not recommended bail for Gabo, who, Gasalao said, shall be under a round-the-clock security with two detailed policeman keeping close watch.

Gasalao said he had earlier tried to talk to Gabo to surrender peacefully, but the latter refused. *JG

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