An alleged Salisi gang leader was shot dead by unidentified gunmen riding motorcycles on Arellano Avenue near the Angelo King International Center (AKIC) campus and Hotel Benilde last night, August 30.

The victim has been identified as Eduardo Panopio, 37 years old, and goes by the alias “JR Panot” according to a Facebook post by the Arellano Police Community Precinct (PCP). CCTV footage care of Barangay 745 revealed there were three motorcycles involved in the incident.

The post also disclosed Panopio as the leader of the Salisi gang, a known modus operandi which involves distracting the intended victim while another accomplice carries out the theft.

“Initial investigation disclosed that the victim is known to be the leader of the notorious SALISI GANG together with G-GIRLS who went viral several times on social media likewise, using different names,” the post read.

In addition, Panopio was formerly arrested and detained at various police stations such as Malate, Sampaloc, Ermita, and Makati, Boracay, and latest was in Sta. Cruz, Laguna, where he was released last March 30.

According to Barangay 745 Chairman Castillano, Panopio suffered a total of nine shots, five to the head and four to the body. The victim was declared dead as soon the police arrived on the scene.

Some witnesses confirmed the gunmen first warned the people around Panopio to move away before shooting the victim.

In a report by Radio Mindanao Network, a certain PCI Paulito Sabulao said Panopio was included in the drug watch list. Panopio was also said to have been active in groups that commit theft in different areas.

In an interview with The Benildean, AKIC security promised to ensure the safety of Benildeans by closely monitoring the vicinity especially at night.

Meanwhile, according to the post, the PCP is “[continuously] conducting [a manhunt] operation to track down the riding in tandem who shot the aforementioned [victim].” With reports from Jhey De Leon