PNP Backs Napolcom Investigation on Police Abductions
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) has expressed full support for the National Police Commission’s (Napolcom) ongoing investigation into the alleged involvement of police officers in the abductions of at least 34 cockfighting enthusiasts, commonly known as “sabungeros.”
Napolcom announced the probe last Friday following claims from one of the suspects that law enforcement officials took part in the disappearances. These incidents reportedly occurred between April 2021 and January 2022, raising serious concerns over police accountability.
PNP Offers Cooperation and Resources
PNP Chief General Nicolas Torre III assured the public during a press briefing at Camp Crame on Monday that the police force will fully cooperate with Napolcom’s investigation. “We will defer to the statement of Napolcom Vice Chairperson Atty. Ralph Calinisan. We will support whatever direction he will take in this investigation,” he said.
He also highlighted that the PNP’s Internal Affairs Service is working closely with Napolcom to ensure a thorough examination of the facts. Furthermore, Gen. Torre stated, “We will defer to the direction of the DOJ. For the PNP, we will provide them with whatever information, support, or manpower that they will require from us.”
Suspect Alleges Police Role and Taal Lake Connection
One of the suspects, a security guard at a Manila cockfighting arena identified only as “Totoy,” made allegations in a recent interview that police officers were involved in the abductions. Totoy further claimed that the missing sabungeros were buried in the waters of Taal Lake in Batangas.
PNP spokesperson Brigadier General Jean Fajardo stated that the police are ready to offer protection to Totoy and assist him in filing an affidavit to strengthen the case. In addition, the PNP’s Maritime Group is set to conduct searches in Taal Lake to locate any possible evidence related to the case.
Ongoing Efforts to Resolve the Case
This investigation has drawn attention to the possibility of police misconduct, prompting various agencies to collaborate for transparency and justice. Authorities urge anyone with information related to the abductions to come forward to aid the investigation.
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