CHR to probe killing of construction worker mistaken as robber

Commission on Human Rights’ official logo. (Image from CHR website)

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Monday said it will conduct a motu proprio investigation into the killing of a construction worker who was mistakenly identified as a robber and shot by a police officer in Pampanga on Sunday.

The victim, identified as Federico “Tek” Pineda, was on his way home in Santa Rita town after her daughter’s seventh birthday party when Cpl. Eframe Ramirez, a police officer who was pursuing a robbery-holdup suspect, saw him and shot him dead.

“Pending the results of our own investigation, we urge the police force to be more discerning on the use of force and firearms during police operations,” CHR spokesperson Atty. Jacqueline Ann de Guia said in a statement.

“As detailed in their own Philippine National Police revised operational procedures, the use of excessive force is categorically prohibited. And should it be necessary, warning must be first issued and the force to be employed should only be to neutralize resistance and subdue clear and imminent danger,” she added.

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Debold Sinas earlier said that Ramirez will face a homicide complaint as well as case for illegal discharge of firearm.

Sinas also ordered the regional director of PRO-3 to pursue an administrative case for the cop’s immediate dismissal from service.

JPV