Cops nab wanted barangay chieftain

LEGAZPI CITY --- A barangay official accused of cuddling members of the notorious Concepcion criminal gang was collared by police operatives on Monday, Aug. 24 in Libon town, Albay province.

Arrested was Arturo Madronero, 55, the incumbent chairman of Barangay Molosbolos, Capt. Dexter Panganiban, Albay police spokesperson, said.

Policemen served the court warrant to the suspect who was sighted at Centro Poblacion, Barangay 7, in Libon at around 10:30 AM.

The suspect is facing charges for obstruction of justice after he allegedly allowed members of the Concepcion Criminal Group to stay at his residence in June this year. Previously, the crime group members attacked policemen who were about to serve them a warrant of arrest at Madronero’s residence in Barangay Molosbolos, a remote village in Libon.

A clash ensued between the cops and gang members, resulting in the death of a member of the crime group.

A member of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) was also injured in the incident. Madronero is now detained at the town police jail. (PNA)