A police operation to serve an arrest warrant in a mountainous area of Cebu City escalated into a shootout on Monday afternoon, leaving the target wounded and leading to the seizure of illegal drugs and a firearm.
Violent Encounter During Warrant Service
The incident occurred at around 5:45 PM on Monday, December 22, 2025, in Sitio Maling, Barangay Babag. Personnel from the Regional Special Project Unit (RSPU) 7 arrived to serve a warrant of arrest for illegal drugs against Melchor Macaraya, a resident of Sitio Kanyasan, Barangay Bonbon.
According to the police investigation, as officers attempted to serve the warrant, Melchor Macaraya suddenly fired at them twice. The responding police team returned fire, hitting Macaraya in the lower part of his leg.
Recovered Evidence and Second Suspect
Authorities recovered significant evidence from the scene and the suspects:
- A .45 caliber pistol and two empty shells.
- Two packets of suspected shabu from Melchor Macaraya.
- Another packet of suspected shabu from his companion, identified as Gilbert Bonghanoy Macaraya, who was found and restrained in the area.
The wounded Melchor was quickly rushed to the Cebu City Medical Center for treatment. Meanwhile, Gilbert was taken into custody by RSPU 7 operatives.
Links to Notorious Group
Police intelligence indicates that both Melchor and Gilbert are reported members of the Manto Gun for Hire Group. This group is known to operate in Talisay City and the mountainous parts of Cebu City.
Beyond their alleged involvement in gun-for-hire activities, the suspects are also accused of selling illegal drugs. This drug case was the basis for the arrest warrant that led to the operation. Due to these activities, Melchor Macaraya was listed as the region's top 6 most wanted person prior to the raid.
