NBI agent shot by co-worker

MANILA, Philippines - A National Bureau of Investigation agent was shot by a co-worker he was trying to pacify following a heated argument in one of the offices at the NBI headquarters in Manila Friday night.

Special Investigator (SI) Joselito Guillen, assigned to the Deputy Director for Intelligence Service, suffered three gunshot wounds – two in the back and one in the hand. He was confined at the Manila Doctors Hospital for treatment, but was declared out of danger, NBI spokesperson Cecilio Zamora said.

SI Nestor Pascual, who is with the NBI’s National Capital Region (NCR) office, was detained at the NBI jail and subjected to inquest proceedings on frustrated homicide charges yesterday, Zamora said.

Sources said the incident occurred during a birthday party of one of the NBI-NCR personnel, where alcoholic beverages were served. Agents and employees from other NBI offices, including Guillen, were also invited.

As the NBI employees drank, sources said there were heated discussions on some topics, including a planned revamp that was supposed to take effect before the Commission on Elections ban on the reshuffling of personnel.

When Guillen tried to pacify Pascual, the latter reportedly pulled out a handgun and shot Guillen.

Justice Secretary Leila de Lima ordered yesterday an investigation into the shooting after she received a report about it.

“Yes to both your questions. Incidents like that are unacceptable to me,” said De Lima when asked if an investigation has been ordered and if those present at the NCR office would be relieved of their duties.

 â€œJust as when NBI’s image is evidently improving and public trust vis-à-vis the institution is manifest from the volume of its current workload, here comes an unfortunate incident which could have been avoided simply thru observance of clear rules, e.g. no alcohol within office premises,” she added.

De Lima said NBI officials and agents “should be exemplars of self-discipline and good behavior.” – With Rey Galupo