Cop freed from detention but may face inquiry

CEBU, Philippines - The maritime policeman who was arrested last Sunday dawn for alleged indiscriminate firing of his service firearm inside the Parkmall premises was released from detention after it was confirmed that his gun went off as he drew it from its holster.

PO2 Eric de Luna, 45, of barangay Marigondon, Lapu-Lapu  City and assigned at the Cebu Maritime Police Station was arrested last Sunday dawn  by a SWAT Team but was released yesterday after paying a fine for being drunk.

Luna is not out of the woods yet. Although he was off duty at the time, Luna may face an administrative inquiry for taking his gun with him while he went out for a drink at a public place.

However, Homicide chief P/Insp. Ramil Morpos yesterday said an investigation of the incident proved he was having a drink at a place near the mall and responded when he heard gunfire coming from a resto-bar nearby.

As he drew his gun, it went off. Luna surrendered to a SWAT team.

Morpos said a case could be filed against Luna but witnesses could testify that it was an accident.