PNP to tighten firearm security rules for cops
The Philippine National Police is tightening firearm security protocols following a school shooting where a student used his father's government-issued weapon. Officials are emphasizing responsible storage and planning safety drills in schools.
Why it matters
This highlights ongoing efforts to improve public safety and gun control accountability in the Philippines following a tragic incident.
MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine National Police is reinforcing firearm security rules among PNP personnel after investigation showed that the suspect in the Zamboanga City school shooting used guns issued by the government to his father.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the move is aimed at strengthening accountability among its personnel in the storage of their firearms.
"We remind all our personnel to exercise utmost responsibility in securing their firearms, especially when they are off duty and at home," he said in a statement.
The suspect in the Ateneo de Zamboanga University Junior High School shooting, a 14-year-old Grade 8 student, used two handguns issued to his father, a Bureau of Customs official. BOC Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno has since sacked the father.
Nartatez ordered police commanders to conduct firearm-accountability reminders during briefings to emphasize to their personnel proper storage and handling of guns.
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