Cops push drive vs loose guns in Abra

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – Abra policemen has heightened their drive against loose firearms at the heels of last week’s shooting of the offices of Catholic-run newspaper Abra Today, its radio affiliates DZPA and Spirit FM radio DWWM by still unidentified gunmen.

Abra policemen collared so far “small fries” in its drive against “loose guns” still proliferating in the province but provincial director Senior Superintendent Charlo Collado promised the intensified random checkpoints and 24-hour “operation bakal” can preempt crimes and reduce the root causes of violence.

Only a few days ago, a joint task force – Abra policemen, commandos from the 1601st Mobile Group, Special Action Force and Regional Mobile Group cornered security guard Nestor Talledo of the Abra State Institute of Science and Technology for his .45 caliber Norinco-made pistol with one magazine loaded with eight live ammunition. 

As the cops combed down Bangued, Abra’s capital town, 41-year-old Junar Bersamin was also arrested for bringing a Colt .45 pistol with one magazine loaded with six live ammunition without the necessary government permit.

Along a checkpoint, 22-year-old Harry Pilarta was also taken for questioning for bringing a loaded .38 caliber revolver. He was drunk.

Abra Gov. Eustaquio Bersamin has ordered cops in the province to be on their toes amid last week’s shooting at the offices of Abra Today, DZPA and Spirit FM radio DWWM.

Bersamin has hinted a reward of P20,000 for anyone who can give tips to authorities on the identities of the perpetrators.

Tighter security has also been ordered by Bangued town Mayor Dominic Valera.