Probe ordered on police who fired warning shot

CEBU, Philippines - The Regional Investigation and Detection Management Division has directed the Mandaue City Police Office to conduct an investigation into the illegal discharge of firearm involving a cop that injured a 15-year-old boy in Barangay Canduman.

Police Officer 3 Joel Osabel, assigned at the Opao Police Station in Mandaue City, reportedly fired a warning shot using his service firearm while responding to a theft alarm on Sunday.

The bullet reportedly ricocheted and hit Ryan Medalle, who was standing at the roadside, in his left foot.

RIDMD-7 chief Senior Superintendent Rey Lyndon Lawas said they have yet to check the veracity of the incident to determine the possible charges Osabel might face.

Lawas said the investigation will include Osabel’s act of firing a warning shot, saying policemen are no longer authorized and must refrain from firing a warning shot in accordance with the Philippine National Police operation procedure.

He said they will also look into how the police officer fired his gun that caused the bullet to ricochet.

“Definitely bawal na g’yud na pero tan-awon nato ang situation,” he said.

Lawas said they will look into Osabel’s reason for firing a warning shot, saying this must be justified.

The police will also subject Osabel’s service firearm to ballistic examination.

Osabel earlier said he did not intend to shoot anyone that time.

A day after the incident, Medalle was accompanied by his parents to the police station and to file their affidavit.

The victim’s parents were also advised to secure a medical certificate if they plan to pursue a case against the cop. — Grace Melanie I. Lacamiento/NSA (FREEMAN)