Controversial SWAT cop relieved from post

CEBU, Philippines - The controversial member of Cebu City’s Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team who was accused of pointing his gun at government officials has been placed under camp restriction.

Police Regional Office Director, Chief Supt. Prudencia Tom Bañas, ordered that SPO1 Arthur Sabang be placed under camp restriction while the National Police Commission is investigating his alleged action.

Napolcom’s administrative probe is on top of the criminal charges Masbate Rep. Scott Davies Lanete and Provincial Environment Officer Edgar de Lara filed against Sabang.

They alleged that Sabang had inadvertently pointed his gun at them and Masbate Governor Rizalina Seachon-Lanete when he aimed his flashlight at them just as the Masbate contingent in Sinulog Grand Parade last Sunday was about to enter the Cebu City Sports Center.

The flashlight was reportedly attached to the muzzle of Sabang’s rifle.

Sabang, one of those securing the sports center, has apologized for the incident but this did not prevent the complainants from pressing charges.

Bañas empathized with the complainants, saying he understands what they must have felt following their experiences in surviving ambush in the past.

Senior Supt. Conrad Capa, PRO-7 Deputy Regional Director for Operations and Cebu City Police Office Officer-in-charge, said Sabang has been relieved from his duties with SWAT and is now assigned at the headquarters. — (FREEMAN)