A police officer was arrested early Christmas morning after he allegedly fired his service weapon during a confrontation with three minors over the use of firecrackers, authorities said.

The 28-year-old patrolman, assigned to the Philippine National Police (PNP) Maritime Group, was taken into custody around 12:10 a.m. Thursday on Culdesac Road in Barangay Sun Valley.

According to a statement from the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), the officer confronted children aged 10, 12, and 15 because of the noise they were making with firecrackers. During the encounter, the suspect reportedly drew his service-issued 9mm pistol and fired shots indiscriminately in front of them.

The NCRPO said the incident caused “fear, shock, and emotional distress” to the minors.

The children and their guardians have filed complaints for grave threats in relation to the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act, as well as for the indiscriminate discharge of a firearm.

Responding officers recovered the suspect’s firearm, a magazine with three live rounds, one spent shell casing, and his police identification card.

NCRPO Chief Maj. Gen. Anthony Aberin condemned the officer’s actions, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy for misconduct.