Dumaguete: The Negros Oriental Police has recorded 31 shooting incidents in the province since January, prompting intensified operations against loose firearms, an official said Thursday. Lt. Stephen Polinar, provincial police spokesperson, emphasized the importance of preventing crimes involving firearms and reminded police stations of a standing order that mandates the application and service of five search warrants against suspected illegal gun owners for every shooting incident in their area.
According to Philippines News Agency, Lt. Polinar highlighted that if two or more shooting incidents occur in a town or city, the police chief may face relief from their position if the crimes remain unsolved. The police are urging barangay officials and the community to assist in identifying potential gun owners, as tracing individuals with undocumented firearms poses a significant challenge.
The latest shooting incidents were reported in the towns of Sibulan and Pamplona on Tuesday. Police arrested the suspect in the Sibulan shooting, while the perpetrator in the Pamplona case is still at large. Provincial police records indicate that out of the 31 shooting incidents, 16 have been cleared, nine solved, and six currently under investigation.
The shooting incidents have occurred in various locations, including Bais City, Basay, Bayawan City, Canlaon City, Dauin, Guihulngan, La Libertad, San Jose, Sta. Catalina, Siaton, Sibulan, Tayasan, Valencia, Vallehermoso, and Zamboanguita. Sibulan has the highest number of cases at four, with one suspect already arrested.
