‘Theft suspect beaten up inside precinct’

QUESTIONS arose over the affidavits submitted by five policemen assigned at the Fuente police precinct at the time a theft suspect died in jail.

Chief Insp. Bonifacio Garciano, chief of the Investigation and Detection Management Branch (IDMB), said  the affidavits submitted by the  policemen contradicted the initial testimonies of nine  street children who stayed in the precinct.

He said the policemen denied that the mauling of theft suspect Joven Tejano took place inside the precinct.

However, the boys said they saw four members of the Trackers, a civilian asset group, beat up Joven Tejano inside the precinct.

One of Trackers  identified as Rafael Enriquez arrested Tejano in barangay Sambag Dos last Thursday afternoon.

Police officers denied any violence took place  in the precinct.

Affidavits were submitted by  PO2 Edward Acop, PO1 Rey Pabroa, PO3 Allan Sanchez, assistant jailer and desk officer PO2 Allan Vallejo, and shift officer Insp. Kit Andaya.

Garciano said he will  consolidate the statements of the policemen and witnesses including street children before making a recommendation on possible  administrative liability.

Homicide investigators invited  Tracker members assigned in Fuente police precinct to appear before their office to shed light on the case.

SPO4 Dennis Moga, homicide deputy investigator, said   once they positively identify the Tracker members responsible for Tejano’s death, they will file criminal charges against them. Correspondent Chito Aragon