MANILA, Philippines - A businessman and a confidential anti-narcotics agent were arrested Saturday for using a drone and carrying a gun, respectively, in areas where these had been banned as part of security measures for Pope Francis’ visit.
Michael Sy Yu, who identified himself as a photographer for Snaps Creative Inc., was caught flying a drone near Diamond Hotel at around 9:30 a.m. by Manila police officers, said Philippine National Police spokesman Chief Superintendent Wilben Mayor.
The hotel was being used as a command center by the government.
Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas earlier warned unauthorized individuals against flying camera-equipped drones, which are considered regulated gadgets and should be registered with the National Telecommunications Commission.
Mayor said Yu will charged for violating the no-fly zone for drones in Manila.
Meanwhile, a confidential agent of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency was arrested for carrying a 9mm pistol along Quirino Avenue in Manila, one of the areas declared as gun-free zones.
Sonnyboy Annonat is the second person to be arrested for carrying firearms near the area where Pope Francis would pass.