• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has issued a stern warning against indiscriminate firing, or celebratory gunfire, during the holiday season.
In a statement, the Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) said that indiscriminate firing, or celebratory gunfire, is a criminal act and will not be tolerated.
Anyone caught, civilian or law enforcer, will face immediate arrest, and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, it stressed.
A safe holiday season starts with responsibility, the statement further said.
In another statement, PNP Acting Chief Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. also warned police personnel and gun owners that a one-strike policy will be enforced against indiscriminate firing during the holiday season.
Nartatez Jr. said the policy is meant to deter irresponsible behavior among gun owners and prevent injuries and deaths, especially during the holidays.
Under the one-strike policy, the PNP said any person involved in indiscriminate firing will face immediate action, without warnings or second chances.
Nartatez said any PNP personnel found involved in indiscriminate firing will face both administrative and criminal liabilities.
He also reminded police commanders of their responsibility to maintain discipline within their ranks and warned that unit leaders would be held accountable for violations committed by their personnel.*
