Gov't service pistol recovered from minor in South Cotabato 

A government-issued firearm loaded with live rounds of ammunition was recovered from a male student in Tupi, South Cotabato, the Police Regional Office 12 reported.

According to PRO 12, a concerned citizen reported to the Tupi Municipal Police Station on July 7, Tuesday, that a minor was allegedly brandishing a handgun along the national highway in Barangay Poblacion in the town of Tupi.

“Investigation disclosed that the firearm was the issued service weapon of the minor's older brother, an active member of the uniformed personnel, and had been taken without his knowledge or consent,” the police regional office said in a statement.

The minor was then referred to the Women and Children Protection Desk and turned over to the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office.

The police said that charges for violation of Republic Act No. 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act are also being prepared.

PRO 12 Acting Regional Director Police Brigadier General Alan Manibog commended the resident’s vigilance which led to the swift recovery of the firearm.

“Ang mabilis na pag-uulat ng ating kababayan ay patunay na namumunga ang ating sama-samang pagsisikap para sa mas ligtas na komunidad. Kapag nagtutulungan ang pulisya at mamamayan, mas napipigilan natin ang anumang banta sa kapayapaan at kaayusan,” Manibog said in a statement.

(The prompt reporting by the concerned citizen was proof that our collective efforts for a safer community are bearing fruit. When the police and the public work together, we are better able to prevent any threats to peace and order.) —RF, GMA News