Gun ‘accidentally fired’ inside poll canvassing headquarters, Comelec confirms
By Martin Sadongdong
A gun that was “accidentally” fired inside the headquarters of the National Board of Canvassers (NBOC) caused panic among poll officials and members of the media in Pasay City Monday night.
Commission on Elections spokesman James Jimenez
(MANILA BULLETIN)
Some members of the media who were still working at the NBOC headquarters heard a loud “bang” past 7 p.m.
Security officials claimed a piece of plywood had just fallen on the floor in an apparent move to contain the situation.
However, Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez confirmed that an “accidental firing” occurred after a security official who had just finished his shift was about to turn over his firearm to the incoming officer.
“I have to tell you that we have armed guards in this facility and a few minutes ago, there was a change on the shift. Naglilipat sila ng firearms which means that they needed to draw their weapons para mailipat sa susunod na guard. Unfortunately during the process, nagkaroon ng accidental firing,” Jimenez said.
The Comelec spokesperson said no one was seriously hurt in the incident.
A security officer who was interviewed by the Manila Bulletin said that “something” hit him in the thigh.
“May tumama na lang sa hita ko. Hindi ko alam kung ano, parang bato,” the officer who refused to be identified said as he hurriedly left the area.
Afterward, members of the media recovered a piece of metal which was believed to be part of a slug from the fired bullet.
“We have recovered the slug. Again no damage, no injury, no loss of life. It was an accidental firing that happened as a result of shift change. We are going to validate, review safety protocols for all of our personnel,” Jimenez said.
Jimenez said the security officers involved in the incident were placed under the custody of the Comelec for questioning. He added that the involved firearm was a caliber .40 pistol.
Jimenez called for calm as he assured the safety and security of all individuals who were in the national canvassing headquarters.