Gunman opens fire, sets fire to Philippine casino

By Roy Ramos

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines (AA) - Gunshots were fired and fire broke out in an attack early Friday at a casino at a popular resort in Manila.

An employee identified as Johnny, who works at the casino at the Resorts World Manila, told a local radio station he saw three tables set ablaze by at least one attacker who was wearing a scarf around his head with only his eyes exposed.

Johnny said apart from patrons screaming in panic, he did not hear the attacker identify himself or shout during the attack at the resort located across the street from one of the main terminals at the Philippines International Airport.

Resorts World said in a statement that the company “is working closely with the Philippine National Police to ensure that all guests and employees are safe”.

Police downplayed a claim mentioned on the SITE Intelligence Group that Daesh claimed the attack was carried out by one of its “lonewolf soldiers”. SITE monitors terrorist groups.

Police Chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa said there is no indication the shooting was terror related and that investigators are looking alternative possible motives.

“We’re looking at robbery as an angle because he stole, he barged into the storage room for casino chips,” dela Rosa told reporters. “He took the chips, put them inside his backpack but eventually left it. The backpack was recovered by the police.”

The gunman, whom authorities have yet to identify or apprehend, was carrying a liter of gasoline that was poured onto gambling tables that were then set on fire, according to dela Rosa. The suspect reportedly did not aim his weapon at anyone during the attack.

Police are searching for the suspect who was last seen on the 5th floor of the building five hours after the attack.

Resorts World Manila is a huge complex with more than four hotels, a shopping mall, casino, cinema and theater.

Medical teams are in the area but officials have not released information on the number of people injured in the attack.

“We have not yet accounted all the injuries, but they are all minor injuries caused by the stampede,” said dela Rosa.