Manila: Through its 911 hotline for swift and responsive police service, a cop and another suspect were arrested for illegal discharge and illegal possession of firearms in separate incidents in Manila and Caloocan City, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) said on Tuesday.
According to Philippines News Agency, NCRPO chief Maj. Gen. Anthony Aberin reported that a concerned citizen called 911 around 10:53 p.m. Sunday to report the alleged firearm discharge along Moriones St., Barangay 123 in Tondo, Manila. Operatives from the Raxabago Police Station under the Manila Police District (MPD) were immediately dispatched to the scene and observed the 37-year-old suspect, a police officer, engaging in a drinking session with friends. Upon being informed of the complaint, the suspect surrendered his government-issued firearm, loaded with 13 rounds of 9mm ammunition, along with his PNP ID.
The suspect was taken to Police Station 1 for further investigation. His firearm, magazine, ammunition, and identification will be transferred to the MPD-General Assignment and Investigation Section for the proper disposition of the case. Maj. Gen. Aberin emphasized the commitment to public safety and accountability within the PNP ranks, stating that no one is above the law and everyone will be accountable for their actions.
In another incident in Caloocan, personnel from the Bagong Barrio Police Sub-Station 5 were conducting routine foot patrol at 4 a.m. Monday in Barangay 151, Bagong Barrio. They received an urgent alert via the 911 hotline about a man allegedly in possession of a firearm. The patrolling officers spotted the suspect visibly carrying a firearm. He attempted to flee but was swiftly intercepted by the responding officers, who seized a Smith and Wesson caliber .38 revolver loaded with four live rounds of ammunition. The suspect failed to present any license or legal authority to possess the firearm, leading to his immediate arrest for violating Section 28 (Unlawful Acquisition or Possession of Firearms and Ammunition) of Republic Act 10591, also known as the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
Maj. Gen. Aberin highlighted the effectiveness of the combination of 911 and swift police response introduced by the Chief PNP, encouraging the public to dial 911 in times of emergency for swift PNP response to address security concerns.
