Philippines police chief Ronald Dela Rosa said that it appears that reports of gunshots and explosions at a entertainment complex in Manila was the work of a single gunman and that there is no indication he is linked with ISIL.
Witnesses reported gunshots, explosions, and billowing smoke from the Resorts World Manila complex that includes a mall, casino, and hotel near Manila’s international airport. Fifty-four people were injured according to Philippines police chief.
Authorities confirmed the suspect is dead, however there are conflicting reports behind the cause of his death.
Interviewed on Philippines radio, Dela Rosa said injuries sustained were mostly minor and from a stampede of people at the complex.
Resorts World Manila is currently on lockdown following reports of gunfire from unidentified men.
— Resorts World Manila (@rwmanila) June 1, 2017
A source at one of the resorts told Reuters that employees were being evacuated and declined to give more details. He said police were now in full control of the situation.
Pictures circulated on social media of the resort, close to the city’s airport, of plumes of smoke pouring out of a building.
GUNSHOTS HEARD! RESORTS WORLD MANILA!
BESAFE EVERYONE! FIRE SPOTTED PRAYERS TO YOU ALL pic.twitter.com/GpoYP965FB— Magik (@officialdjmagik) June 1, 2017
Terror attack at a vacation resort in #Manila, Philippines.
pic.twitter.com/O6ivSNysJZ— 1stAmend UNLEASHED (@AD_WHITMAN) June 1, 2017
We ask for your prayers during these difficult times.
— Resorts World Manila (@rwmanila) June 1, 2017
#Update: Reports of causalities after gunfire and explosions heard in Resorts World Manila in #Philippines; SWAT teams at scene @rwmanila pic.twitter.com/q5sQ1UK2ZI
— People’s Daily,China (@PDChina) June 1, 2017
Resorts World Manila statement:
Story by CGTN with information from the Associated Press and Reuters.