POLICE officers in Central Visayas are reminded to always be careful when handling their firearms.

They must observe basic and gun safety rules at all times, said Police Regional Office Central Visayas Director Brigadier General Roderick Augustus Alba.

A member of the Special Weapons and Tactics Team in Laguna died after he was accidentally shot by a fellow officer on Thursday, November 24, 2022.

“Treat every firearm as if it was loaded. I will hold accountable and responsible if a similar incident will happen here. That’s why I always give reminders that I hope it won’t happen in Central Visayas,” Alba said in a mix of Tagalog and English.

He said police officers know the dos and don’ts while carrying their firearms in their respective offices and there are rules that they must follow even when they are in the firing range.

He pointed out that there are safe areas inside every camp where police officers can check their firearms.

“Do not draw your firearm unless you are targeting somebody to use it. That’s the basic dictum,” Alba added. (AYB PJB)