CHR probing death, alleged torture of Maguindanao detainee

MANILA, Philippines – The Commission on Human Rights (CHR), together with the Bangsamoro Human Rights Commission, is probing the alleged torture and death of a male detainee in Maguindanao.

The CHR is “conducting a motu propio probe on the alleged torture that resulted to the death of 25-year-old Johairie Maongco Dagalangit inside the detention facility of the Barira Municipal Police Station (MPS) in Maguindanao”, the two agencies said in a statement. 

Dagalangit allegedly surrendered to authorities after accidentally hitting a child with his motorcycle. Dagalangit was detained at the Barira police station on September 25. 

The following day, he was reported dead inside the facility, said the CHR.

Local police authorities reported that Dagalangit died in his sleep.

Dagalangit’s father, however, said that his son’s body has signs of torture, which he did not have prior to his detention.

Maguindanao Police Director Colonel Roel Sermese has since replaced the Barira police chief and other police officers involved to allow the CHR to investigate. 

“CHR reiterates its stern reminder against all forms of police brutality that equate to torture, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment.” 

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