The Department of Justice (DOJ) has confirmed the filing of a criminal complaint against the registered owner of the firearm allegedly used in the Aug. 18 shooting at Ateneo de Zamboanga University.
Justice Undersecretary Ian Norman Dato said Thursday the complaint was filed before the Zamboanga City prosecutor’s office by the Philippine National Police (PNP) and would undergo proper evaluation.
“I also confirm that the department confirms that our field office, the Office of the City Prosecutor of Zamboanga City, has received a complaint against the registered firearm owner that was allegedly used in the August 18th shooting at the Ateneo de Zamboanga University,” Dato said during a press briefing.
The complaint was filed against the registered firearm owner in connection with the shooting that killed a junior high school student and injured another.
Dato said the prosecutor’s office would evaluate the complaint based on the evidence submitted by the police.
“Of course, this will undergo proper evaluation,” he said.
He added that subpoenas are expected to be issued to the respondents to give them an opportunity to respond to the allegations.
“As a matter of course, we will expect that subpoenas will be issued on the respondents so that issues can be properly ventilated and the prosecutors will have the chance to evaluate the complaint,” Dato said.
The PNP earlier said it had completed its investigation into the shooting and filed a complaint for reckless imprudence resulting in homicide and physical injury against the registered firearm owner and a school security personnel.
Police said the complaint was based on findings of lapses in the safekeeping and accountability of the firearms allegedly used in the incident.
The Aug. 18 shooting left two students dead, including the alleged shooter, and another 15-year-old student injured.#