Special group formed to probe assault of cop by aviation commander in Bicol

MANILA, Philippines — A special investigation task group has been formed to probe allegations that a ranking Police Regional Office 5 (PRO-5) officer physically assaulted an officer under his watch, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Dionardo Carlos said.

According to Carlos on Friday, he already ordered the immediate probe on the complaints of a PRO-5 Regional Mobile Force Batallion non-commissioned officer, against Regional Aviation commander Police Colonel Dulnoan Dinamling Jr., who allegedly hit him with a broken glass.

Reports from the PNP’s Public Information Office showed that the victim, identified as a certain Police Mst. Sgt. Ricky Brabante, sustained several injuries which required a major operation.

As a result of the assault, Brabante lost his vision on his right eye.

Carlos said that the the whole PNP organization does not condone such actions.

“We do not condone any act of violence within the organization as much as we uphold the right of every accuse for due process,” he said.

“Ipinag-utos na natin ang agarang imbestigasyon sa naturang insidente at nangangakong tutulungan ang naturang pulis na makamit ang nararapat na hustisya. Maging ang RMFB 5 commander ay atin na ring pina-relieve sa kanyang puwesto upang hindi mabahiran ang anumang imbestigasyon,” he added.

PNP-PIO said that even PRO-5 regional director Brig. Gen. Jonnel Estomo has already coordinated with the Aviation Security Group to recommend the immediate removal from service of Dinamling Jr.

Carlos assured that Brabante would get assistance from the PNP.

“We maintain the integrity of the investigation giving equal right to both parties involved. Rank may have its privileges but it can never justify abuse of power and drunken misconduct, and PCol Dinamling will have to face the consequences of his actions,” Carlos added.

EDV