CHR condemns slay of cop in Zamboanga

MANILA, Philippines – The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has condemned the killing of another law enforcer, this time a police officer, who was on his way to work in Zamboanga del Norte.

According to CHR spokesperson and lawyer Jacqueline de Guia, the CHR is alarmed with the “brazen attack” on Mst. Sgt. Chito Napara Lagahit Jr., who was shot dead by unidentified individuals while on his way to the station in Baliguian town.

“The Philippine National Police (PNP) and its officers are duty-bound by its mandate and function to maintain peace and order — prevent and investigate crimes,” De Guia said in a statement on Monday.

“Thus, the Commission calls upon the PNP and all law enforcement agencies to expedite investigation into the death of Master Sergeant Lagahit, to bring justice to the victim and his family and hold to account the perpetrators of this heinous crime,” she added.

Reports said that Lagahit was aboard an SJG bus moving through Sitio Quarry in Barangay Mamawan when the three gunmen approached him.  One of the assailants told the people inside the bus not to be afraid as Lagahit was their only target and meant no harm to the other passengers.

READ: Cop returning to regional unit in Zamboanga shot dead inside bus

The victim sustained gunshot wounds to the head and abdomen.  Authorities say that the case is now being investigated.

Lagahit’s death came days after two off-duty soldiers were killed by still unknown gunmen aboard a motorcycle in Midsayap town of North Cotabato.  Investigators said that the culprit may be members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters.

There is no information on whether or not the attacks are connected to each other.

READ: CHR condemns killing of off-duty soldiers in Cotabato

“The right to life is inviolable and inherent in all individuals, it is protected by due process of law and it is the very foundation of human rights,” De Guia said.

“The Commission extends its deepest condolences to the bereaved family and vows to coordinate efforts with the local law enforcement agency in the investigation into the death of Master Sergeant Lagahit,” she added.