THE local government will turn over Thursday 50 high-powered firearms to augment the firepower capability of the Zamboanga City police force.
The firearms, all M4 model of M-16s worth P3 million, will be personally received by Director-General Jesus Versoza, the Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, from Mayor Celso Lobregat.
Each of the firearms approximately cost the City Government P60,000, according to Lobregat.
Lobregat said the purchase of the firearms had been planned last year but was realized only recently due to processing of the documents and authority to buy the guns.
He said the firearms are intended for the Zamboanga City Police Office (ZCPO), which has jurisdiction over 11 police stations including one in Sacol Island, 54 kilometers east of Zamboanga City.
He said the support and assistance of the local government to the local police and other law enforcement agencies will continue without let up.
The assistance comes in the form of transportation and communication facilities, infrastructures, allowances and other items, Lobregat said. (Bong Garcia)