BOC chief describes security officer, father of suspect in school shooting, as 'competent'
By Liza Jocson
ZAMBOANGA CITY- Bureau of Customs (BOC) Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno described his security officer, identified as the father of the suspect in a school shooting incident here, as "competent".
Speaking before reporters here, Nepomuceno, however,agreed that the officer, who he referred to only as "Lieutenant Lars," may have committed negligence, based on a Philippine National Police (PNP) investigation, because he left his firearms inside his vehicle to which his son had easy access.
Nepomuceno stressed strict policies observed by the agency on the handling of government-issued firearms, particularly among customs police officers who face threats while performing anti-smuggling operations.
"His firearm was used in the shooting. We have no other option but to suspend him from work and relieve him from his position while the investigation is ongoing," Nepomuceno said.
He added that the officer would also be facingadministrative sanctions for negligence and may also be held criminally liable depending on the results of an ongoing PNP investigation.