Cop arrested for gun ban violation

CEBU, Philippines - A police officer was arrested for allegedly violating the Comelec gun ban in Argao Nature’s Park in Barangay Lamacan, Argao Sunday morning.

SPO2 Carlito Amarillo, of the Boljoon Police Station, and a resident of Barangay Binlod, Argao allegedly tucked his .45 caliber service firearm in his waistband while buying in the park to buy a goat.

A concerned citizen who saw Amarillo with his gun reported to the police that resulted in his arrest.

Argao police confiscated the gun with 10 bullets.

Amarillo was expecting visitors last Sunday and he planned to prepare goat meat dishes for them.

Insp. Albert Quilitorio, Argao police chief, said that even if Amarillo’s gun was covered with proper documents, a case will still be filed against him for violating the Comelec gun ban.

Amarillo failed to show a Comelec gun ban exemption allowing him to carry his firearm.

In a separate interview, Amarillo said he did not have any intention to show off his gun.

But the wind blew his shirt exposing the gun in his waistband.“Nganong magpakita gud ta ug armas nga ang mga tao kahibalo na man nga pulis ta,” Amarillo said in a phone interview.

Amarillo insisted that he did not violate any law because as a police officer they should be allowed to carry his firearm.

“Police officer man ta so allowed unta ta unya walay labot sa Comelec gun ban,” he said.

  Amarillo is now detained at the Argao police stockade.  (FREEMAN)