Ex-Marine arrested for threat, unlicensed gun

By Glazyl Y. Masculino

BACOLOD CITY – A former member of the Philippine Marines was arrested for an alleged threat at Villa Servando, Barangay Singcang-Airport on Tuesday night.

Police Major Eugene Tolentino, head of Police Station 8, said the 28-year-old suspect from La Carlota City, Negros Occidental, was renting a room in a house owned by the sibling of a delivery rider.

Tolentino explained that the suspect, whose name was withheld, was apprehended after a 28-year-old victim reported to the police that the suspect had shown his firearm, causing fear, especially with children present in the home.

The victim also alleged that he heard the suspect angrily talking to someone over the phone and smacking his firearm on the table, raising concerns, Tolentino added.

When police responded, they saw the suspect holding a firearm, and he failed to show any pertinent documents, according to Tolentino.

Recovered from the suspect were a .45 Colt pistol, a magazine, and five live rounds of ammunition.

Tolentino noted that there had been no previous altercation between the victim and the suspect. However, the suspect’s recent actions alarmed them, prompting them to seek police assistance to prevent any untoward incidents.

Tolentino stated that the suspect’s actions could be considered a threat because it is unusual for civilians to see such a weapon.

“Ang mga civilians na wala na anad sa armas, kulba-an man sila, especially na may mga bata,” he added.

Tolentino said the suspect was dismissed from the service after going absent without official leave (AWOL).

Charges for grave threat and illegal possession of firearm and ammunition will be filed against the suspect, Tolentino said.