Boracay cop on ‘restricted duty’ after shooting incident

An intelligence operative of Boracay Tourist Assistance Center (BTAC) has been placed under restricted duty after he allegedly involved in a shooting incident on December 29.

Dennis Venus, 31, resident of Sitio Ayala in Barangay Yapak, sustained three gunshot wounds in his right thigh, left buttocks and penumbical area. The victim who was observed under the influence of liquor was shot by 24-year old Police Officer I Christian Kenneth Senon at around 11 p.m. at Main Road in Barangay Yapak.

Initial investigation showed Senon was driving his motorcycle heading towards the Yapak Police Tourist Assistance Desk (TAD) when the victim, armed with a bolo, blocked his way. 

Senon said he stopped, alighted on his motorcycle, and introduced himself as a police officer, but Venus allegedly assaulted him. Sensing danger, the police officer drew his gun and fired at the victim. 

A tricycle driver who brought the victim to Boracay Alert Medical Clinic and Diagnostic in Barangay Balabag told the police that he saw the victim armed with bolo and attacking the police officer. 

He also turned over the scabbard measuring more or less 18 inches owned by Venus. 

Responding police officers recovered at the scene of the crime three fired cartridges and two slightly deformed fired cartridges believed to have been fired from the Glock firearm of Senon. 

Prior to the shooting incident, the victim arrived home from a drinking spree and invited his cousin Owen Venus, 20, also staying in Barangay Yapak, for another drinking session.

The victim’s wife Renalyn prohibited him since he was already drunk but her husband insisted to go out to buy drinks. 

Then, Owen noticed his cousin went outside their house with a bolo.

BTAC police community relations officer Senior Police Officer I Christopher Mendoza said the intelligence operative is on “restricted” duty in BTAC and under investigation following the shooting incident.

Senon, who was referred to a private hospital in Barangay Estancia, Kalibo, Aklan for further treatment, is facing charges for direct assault upon agent of person on authority.





BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL