DOJ-PNP meeting on ‘drug war’ deaths may take place this week – Guevarra

FILE PHOTO: DOJ Secretary Menardo Guevarra (left) and PNP chief Gen. Guillermo Eleazar. INQUIRER

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Justice (DOJ) was planning to hold a meeting this week with the Philippine National Police (PNP) to discuss their review of anti-drug operations that led to the deaths of suspects.

According to Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra, he would be meeting with PNP Gen. Guillermo Eleazar “within the week.”

“Just waiting for the PNP chief’s confirmation. I suggested any day starting this Wednesday,” he also told reporters on Tuesday.

Gueverra said the DOJ will discuss the 52 cases submitted by the PNP, where suspects have died during police anti-drug operations, as well as President Rodrigo Duterte’s speech before the United Nations (UN), where he directed both the DOJ and PNP to hold accountable police officers who acted “beyond bounds” during operations.

“We’ll also discuss a review of drug death cases other than the 52 cases turned over by the PNP to the DOJ, as well as the investigation of similar cases that may arise in the future,” the DOJ chief said.

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