Family Demands Justice for PWD Shot by Policeman
CEBU CITY – A grieving family is calling for justice after a 27-year-old Person with Disability (PWD) was fatally shot by a police officer. The tragic incident has sparked outrage as the victim, Leo Vergel Fin Suico, was killed inside his home in Toledo City, Cebu.
Milagros Suico, Leo’s mother, expressed her anguish and demanded accountability. “Manawagan kog hustisya sa akung anak, wa man toy labot pero yano ra kaayo nga gipatay akung PWD nga anak,” she said. (We demand justice for my son. He did nothing wrong but my son who was PWD was easily killed.)
Details of the Shooting Incident
The fatal shooting occurred around 6 a.m. last June 13. Prior to the shooting, the policeman was involved in a neighborhood altercation. During this melee, the officer struck Leo’s brother in the face with his handgun and fired a warning shot, causing several men to flee.
The policeman then chased one of the men and forced his way into the Suico residence. Inside the house, authorities said the officer shot Leo twice in the head. Police believe the assailant may have mistaken Leo for the man he was pursuing.
Police Officer Surrenders and Charges Filed
The suspect, Police Staff Sgt. Florante Hoyle, assigned to the Detective Management Unit of the Cebu City Police Office (CCPO), surrendered after the incident and turned over his .45 caliber pistol. He now faces a murder charge.
Official Response and Investigation
Police Lt. Col. Maria Theresa Macatangay, deputy city director for operations of the CCPO, confirmed Hoyle’s assignment and said the police leadership continually reminds personnel to act lawfully on and off duty. She assured the public that the CCPO will conduct a fair and thorough investigation.
The CCPO is currently awaiting a report from the Tuburan Police Station to proceed with an administrative inquiry.
The family’s plea for justice highlights concerns over police conduct and the protection of vulnerable individuals like Persons with Disability.
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