Lawman caught driving stolen car

MANILA, Philippines — A policeman was arrested for driving a stolen vehicle and possession of a loose firearm in Quezon City on Friday.

Police Officer 2 Randy Batonghinog, 34, assigned at the Cavite City police station, was arrested in Barangay Socorro at around 2:30 p.m., said Chief Superintendent Joselito Esquivel Jr., Quezon City Police District director.

Esquivel said the suspect was driving a red Toyota Innova that was reported missing by a car rental company last month.

A certain Marta Gabriella Soler, rented the vehicle on July 28 but has not paid the monthly rental of P50,000 and could no longer be contacted by representatives of the car rental firm.

An employee of the firm sought the help of police after he saw the vehicle along Gen. Aguinaldo Avenue.

Batonghinog claimed he just borrowed the car from a friend, whom he refused to identify.

When police officers searched him, an unlicensed .32 caliber pistol was also found in his possession.

The suspect is facing charges of violating Republic Act 10883 or the New Anti-Carnapping Law and RA 10591 or the Comprehensive Law on Firearms and Ammunition.