Policemen can’t use firearms until January 5

CEBU, Philippines – To avoid policemen from firing their weapons indiscriminately during the Holidays, especially during the New Year, cops under the city and provincial police offices had the muzzle of their firearms sealed yesterday.

The tape, which will indicate whether or not the gun has been fired, will be removed only on January 5 next year.

At the Provincial Police Office, Supt. Rodolfo Albotra, Provincial Intelligence Branch chief, clarified that just because the muzzle of a firearms have been taped does not mean the policemen can no longer use the guns, especially if there is a need to do so in line with their duties.

Governor Hilario Davide III was also present at the CPPO headquarters to give incentives to PIB operatives who were successful in their anti-illegal drugs operations.

Among those who received the incentive was the PIB chief who received P10,000. Another P5,000 was also given to Albotra’s subordinates.

Meanwhile, Chief Insp. Enrique Belciña of the Cebu City Police Office Community Relations said the annual practice has been proven effective in avoiding indiscriminate firing. He said the taping is also being conducted to set an example for private gun owners to replicate.

Like Albotra, Belciña said a policeman can still fire his gun if his life is in imminent danger when responding to an alarm.

“It’s a case to case basis. Authorized ra magpabuto basta legitimate ang pagdischarge sa ilang pusil,” he said.

Belciña said CCPO aims for zero casualty from firecrackers and stray bullets.

A policeman who will be found to have fired the weapon indiscriminately will be subjected to administrative investigation and may face charges if proof warrants. — /JMO (FREEMAN)