Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 8) — The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday sought a review of policy on weapons training following a live fire exercise mishap that wounded two cops in Ilocos Region.
“If accidents like this can happen in training even under controlled conditions, it is likely to happen anytime during the course of normal police functions involving firearms and live ammunition,” said PNP chief Gen. Dionardo Carlos in a statement.
According to the initial report from Police Regional Training Center 1, instructor Police Corporal Benie Dupayat and trainee Patrolman John Conrad Villanuva were in the middle of a demonstration of a caliber .45 pistol when the gun malfunctioned.
Dupayat was hit on his hand while the fired bullet ricocheted hitting Villanueva in the thigh.
Both police personnel were treated at the PNP Regional Hospital.
However, the PNP will investigate if the incident was really an accident.
“We will determine the veracity of the claim that this was purely accidental, at the same time, we remind our instructors to ensure safety at all times,” Carlos added.
“Safety is paramount in weapons training and every instructor must not fall behind this primary consideration.”
