Police chiefs warned: One strike, you’re out

EDITORIAL

The Philippine National Police warned chiefs of police that they would be relieved from their posts if they fail to solve cases of deaths and injuries caused by indiscriminate firing during the Christmas and New Year festivities.

              PNP deputy chief for operations Lt. Gen. Camilo Pancratius Cascolan said they have imposed since last week a one-strike rule for chiefs of police as well as precinct and station commanders.

               “The policy will strictly apply to all chiefs of police who will fail to take action to solve these cases within 24 hours,” Cascolan told reporters.

He said the PNP targets zero casualty from indiscriminate firing and stray bullet incidents.

              Cascolan clarified that the directive does not mean that the culprits should be arrested within 24 hours, admitting it is difficult to pinpoint those responsible for the incidents. “The first thing you should do is to investigate kung saan nanggaling ang bala,” he said.

Police recorded 33 cases of indiscriminate firing and 12 stray bullet-related injuries during the Yuletide season last year.

If a slug is recovered, Cascolan said this should be immediately turned over to the Crime Laboratory for forensic examination.

              Just like in previous years, the PNP will no longer tape the muzzles of police guns.

              “The days of gun-muzzle taping are gone as it only sends a message that we don’t trust our police officers,” Cascolan said.

                Charges of grave misconduct and dismissal from the service await policemen who will be caught indiscriminately firing their guns, the PNP said.