Cops facing raps told to surrender guns

National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief Director Geary Barias has ordered the recall of all government-issued firearms to police officers who are facing criminal and administrative charges.

In his directive to all district directors in the NCRPO, a copy of which was obtained by The STAR, Barias said the standard operating procedure shall be strictly implemented on all personnel accused of being involved in any illegal activity.

He issued the order after observing that “some NCRPO personnel had abused or misused their authority against the very civilians they have sworn to protect and serve.”

Barias said some unscrupulous policemen have used government-issued firearms in committing crimes or illegal activities such as extortion and physical abuse – showing their lack of maturity and sense of responsibility.

Plaintiffs often complain that they might be harmed since the lawmen they filed charges against continue to bear firearms and use the weapons to intimidate them.

“In the hands of irresponsible police officers, guns may be destructive rather than an instrument to protect lives and properties. Guns must be taken away from this type of officer,” Barias said.

In his order, Barias tasked unit commanders to recall from police officers any government-issued firearm established to have been used in the commission of any illegal activity.

The recalled firearms shall be turned over to the supply officer or evidence custodian of the unit where the officer is assigned for proper disposition pending the resolution of his case. The firearm will be returned to the officer after he has been cleared of his offense.

Barias said an erring police officer will also have gun licenses for his privately owned firearms revoked. If the firearm is unlicensed, the police officer will be charged with violating the firearms law.

All recalled firearms shall be reissued to other police officers without government-issued firearms.

Barias said he will personally monitor the strict implementation of his order.