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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider PNP eyes buying tasers amid backlash on death of PTSD-stricken ex-soldier

PNP eyes buying tasers amid backlash on death of PTSD-stricken ex-soldier

Published Apr 30, 2020 12:00 am
By Aaron Recuenco The Philippine National Police (PNP) is eyeing the procurement of stun guns amid the backlash over the killing of a former soldier suffering from war shock at a checkpoint in Quezon City. Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Archie Gamboa Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Archie Gamboa (MANILA BULLETIN FILE PHOTO) PNP chief Gen. Archie Francisco Gamboa said they are currently evaluating the procurement of what he describes as non-violent equipment that could be used against violent and unarmed civilians. “It’s part of the plan of the PNP other than (procurement) of firearms,” Gamboa said when asked if they plan to buy taser guns. Tasers are described as non-violent weapons that incapacitate a person by delivering high-voltage electricity. The weapon is used by several police forces in various countries. The PNP was severely criticized after the death of former Corporal Winton Ragos, who was shot by the police on April 21 after he was perceived as a threat for allegedly moving to draw something from his sling bag while being ordered to lie on the ground. Ragos suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which he acquired while serving in combat operations against armed groups in Luzon and Mindanao. Aside from body cameras, there were proposals for the police to use taser guns to subdue unarmed but violent suspects. While stun guns are considered a non-violent way of subduing a suspect, studies abroad revealed that they pose a serious threat to people suffering from heart problems. Gamboa said the PNP's Directorate for Logistics is studying the proposal to buy stun guns.
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