Sinas discourages public from taking videos, photos during crime incidents: Very tricky 'yun

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Police General Debold Sinas on Monday said he would not suggest taking photos or videos during crime incidents, such as the fatal shooting incident in Paniqui, Tarlac that claimed the lives of a mother and his son.

During a press conference, Sinas was asked for his reaction about the public's sentiment that it was good the shooting incident involving Police Senior Master Sergeant Jonel Nuezca was caught on video or else the cop could easily get away with it.

Sinas warned that taking photos or videos could put witnesses at risk.

"I think nasa mga tao po 'yun, sa mga witness na kumuha (ng video and photos). I will not advise because very tricky 'yun. Baka mamaya kumuha ka ng video tapos baka mababalingan ka, so sa inyo po 'yun," he said.

"If I may suggest, kung may mga ganoong incident, we just witness at saka ‘wag na tayo mag-interfere lalo na pag armed or dangerous 'yung suspect or 'yung mga involved," he added.

If civilians really want to take photos or videos, they have to make sure that they are far from the crime scene, Sinas said.

The PNP chief also advised the public to refrain from posting videos or photos on social media, adding that they should just show it to authorities as these can be used as evidence.

"Instead of having it posted sa internet, baka makuwan pa, matamper pa. Show it officially to the investigators at magtestify ka na ikaw ang kumuha," Sinas said.

Sinas has condemned the incident, noting that justice will be served for victims Sonya Rufino Gregorio and her son Frank Anthony. The PNP chief, however, said the incident was an isolated case.

The PNP's Internal Affairs Service was tasked to conduct a probe on the incident.

Nuezca is already in custody of the Paniqui Police Station after he surrendered to authorities. Aside from double murder charges, an administrative case will also be filed against him.—AOL, GMA News