Philippine authorities said eight Hong Kong tourists were killed by a disgruntled former police officer who hijacked their bus in Manila.
The hijacker, Rolando Mendoza, is also dead from a police sniper’s bullet to the head. Seven more tourists are being treated at hospitals.
The 12-hour stand-off climaxed when the bus driver escaped through a window and Mendoza opened fire on his remaining hostages. Police rushed to the bus, trying frantically to break through the windows with sledge hammers.
A police sniper finally managed to kill Mendoza, bringing the crisis to an end. Dead and injured hostages were taken to ambulances.
Police made an attempt for a peaceful settlement during earlier negotiations. Mendoza released several other passengers – including children, the sick and the elderly.
Mendoza was a highly-decorated captain of the Metro Manila police force until he was fired last year on charges of extortion and harassment.
Chief Inspector Erwin Margarejo of the Manila police district told reporters that Mendoza was demanding to have his name cleared and be reinstated. ?