Cop who fired gun indiscriminately freed

CEBU, Philippines - Because no one was interested to file charges against him, the policeman who was arrested for indiscriminate firing in barangay Pasil the other day was released from detention yesterday afternoon.

Sr. Insp. Noel Lomente, chief of the San Nicolas Police Station, said PO1 Gilbert Igot, who is presently assigned at Malabuyoc Police Station, was released because there was no complainant filed charges against him.

Lomente said even Igot’s arresting officer, Insp. George Aniñon of the Mandaue City Police Office, was not willing to file a case against him.

Igot was placed under arrest when he slammed his .45 pistol on the table when he got irked after Puerto Rican boxer Miguel Cotto lost to Manny Pacquiao the other day. His firearm also allegedly went off accidentally while tucked on his waist.

No one was injured in the incident, but the crowd of about 300 that watched the fight with him along F. Rallos Street, panicked when the gun went off.

Some of those in the area even alleged that Igot’s brother-in-law fired a shot into the air.

Provincial Police Director Jesus Gaquing said he will direct Lomente to file appropriate charges against Igot if investigation would warrant. — Niña G. Sumacot/JMO   (FREEMAN NEWS)