PNP heeds Duterte order to stop probe on Misamis Occidental mayor’s slay

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) said Monday it will heed the order of President Rodrigo Duterte to stop its investigation on the death of Clarin, Misamis Occidental Mayor David Navarro.

“The PNP respects the decision of the President and will comply with his order,” PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Bernard Banac said in a statement.

Raising doubts about the possible involvement of the police on Navarro’s death, Duterte said he wants the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to take over the probe.

READ: Duterte now suspecting cops killed Misamis Occ mayor

Banac said the PNP is also ready to cooperate with the NBI to ensure an impartial investigation on the case.

Around 10 armed men ambushed the three-vehicle convoy escorting Navarro for inquest proceedings at the Cebu City Prosecutor’s Office on the afternoon of October 25.

Four others, including two policemen, were injured in the sudden attack.

Navarro, who was on Duterte’s watchlist of narco-politicians released in March, was facing charges of usurpation of authority, slight physical injury, and acts of lasciviousness in relation to a complaint that he allegedly assaulted a male massage therapist.

Police earlier said they could not manage to fire back at the perpetrators, claiming that the incident happened too fast.