GENERAL SANTOS CITY – A police officer is now behind bars and facing multiple criminal and administrative charges after he allegedly chased and shot a 22-year-old man who had reportedly figured in a dispute with the officer’s child in Barangay Labangal, authorities said.
The suspect, identified only as a 46-year-old Police Corporal assigned to the 2nd Sarangani Provincial Mobile Force Company (SPMFC) in Kiamba, Sarangani Province, is currently detained at the Makar Police Station while authorities prepare charges against him.
Police said the officer is set to face charges of Grave Threats, Illegal Discharge of Firearms, and Frustrated Homicide, although investigators also disclosed that they are considering filing a Frustrated Murder case depending on the outcome of the ongoing investigation.
According to General Santos City Police Office (GSCPO) Director Police Colonel Eric De Venancio, the shooting stemmed from a family-related conflict.
Initial investigation revealed that at around 3:00 p.m. on Friday, June 26, the police officer’s child allegedly informed him that he had been involved in an altercation outside a school. The officer reportedly went to the residence of the alleged rival, identified only by the alias “Al,” a 22-year-old resident of Purok San Vicente, Barangay Labangal, to confront him.
Upon arriving at the victim’s residence, the police officer allegedly drew his service firearm and pointed it at the young man.
Fearing for his life, the victim reportedly fled from the scene. However, instead of ending the confrontation, the officer allegedly chased after him and fired several shots using his high-powered service firearm.
One of the bullets struck the victim in the hand, causing injuries that required medical treatment.
Authorities responded swiftly to the incident, leading to the immediate apprehension of the suspect. Police confiscated his service firearm, ammunition, badge, and police uniform.
Following the shooting, the police corporal voluntarily surrendered to authorities along with his issued equipment for proper disposition.
Police Major Ari Noel Cardos, chief of Police Station 2, confirmed that the suspect remains under police custody while investigators finalize the criminal complaints against him.
“In addition to the criminal charges, the police officer will also face administrative cases for his actions,” Cardos said.
Meanwhile, Colonel De Venancio emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing, noting that no decision has yet been made regarding the officer’s dismissal from the Philippine National Police.
Authorities said they are continuing to gather evidence and witness statements to determine the appropriate charges to be filed before the prosecutor’s office.
The victim is reportedly recovering from the gunshot wound, while police assured the public that due process will be observed as the case proceeds.