No this is not a scene from an action movie. This is a shot taken from the UNTV video during a supposed “shootout” between the PNP-Traffic Management Group’s Task Force Limbas and an alleged carjacking-carnapping syndicate.

The video captured how the cops (all in civilian clothes with no distinguishing marks or badges) pumped more bullets into the seemingly already lifeless bodies slumped inside the car.

The PNP manual of operational procedures states what steps to take immediately after a shootout. The manual says the officer in charge of the operation shall:

• Secure the site of confrontation.
• Check whether the situation still poses imminent danger.
• Evacuate the wounded to the nearest hospital.
• Account for the killed, wounded, and arrested persons for proper disposition.

The video footage prompted an investigation by PNP for possible irregularities committed during the operation. But even before the investigation can come up with results, the cops involved are reinstated and were already commended by the DILG Secretary for a job well done.

“Buti na lang hindi kami pinabayaan nang aming mga nakakataas”, said a happy cop involved in the shootout interviewed after being reinstated. The video was gruesome but for some reason this statement is more scary.