Napolcom investigates if cops were involved in missing ‘sabungeros’ case
The DILG-Napolcom Building on EDSA corner Quezon Avenue in Quezon City. (Image from the DILG’s Facebook page)
MANILA, Philippines — The National Police Commission (Napolcom) is investigating a claim that police officers were involved in the abduction of cockfighting enthusiasts or “sabungeros.”
The claim came from one of the case’s suspects, a Manila cockfighting arena security guard identified only as “Totoy,” in a GMA News interview aired last Tuesday.
In response, Napolcom Vice Chairperson and Executive Officer Rafael Calinisan ordered the agency’s Inspection, Monitoring and Investigation Service to start a motu proprio investigation into the alleged involvement of law enforcers.
“The Napolcom is not afraid to investigate and the Napolcom is not afraid to impose penalties, even if it’s dismissal from the service, if that will be needed,” Calinisan said in an interview with reporters at the agency’s office in Quezon City on Friday.
He clarified that they have yet to receive an affidavit from Totoy regarding his claim.
“If he’s listening on this day, I hope you will file with us your complaint affidavit so that we can act on your claim that police are involved here,” the Napolcom vice chairperson appealed to Totoy.
Regardless of whether or not Totoy will come forward to Napolcom, Calinisan said the investigation will go on and administrative cases against cops, who will be proven to be involved, will be filed.
He further said Napolcom will welcome inputs from the families of the abducted victims.
As to the number, the ranks and the assignments of the police officers allegedly involved, he said the agency had initial information but he refused to disclose it.
He said it will be “prudent” to let the investigation run its course.
READ: PNP vows it ‘won’t spare’ anyone in missing ‘sabungeros’ case
For its part, the Philippine National Police said it will “not spare” anyone as it looks into Totoy’s claim that cops were involved in abducting the sabungeros.
Meanwhile, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said he intends to meet with Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo following a claim that the mastermind behind the abductions has influence within the judiciary. /apl
