By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan
MANILA – Four police officers were disarmed and placed under restrictive custody for their alleged involvement in a shootout during a law enforcement operation that left two officers dead in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan.
“I already directed the Regional Director to lock up the four policemen for responding without the knowledge of their chief of police,” PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said at a press briefing on Monday.
“They were disarmed as the investigation continues. Nakakulong (They are detained) for the filing of appropriate charges. Of course meron namatay. Ano ang maipa-file doon (someone died. What can be filed there)? It may be homicide or murder.”
Nartatez said the officers were reportedly out of uniform and under the influence of alcohol during the operation.
“We do not cover up, we do not whitewash. We will make sure that those responsible will be held accountable,” he said.
The four officers — three staff sergeants and one corporal — were assigned to Police Station 2 of the Puerto Princesa City Police Office.
Nartatez also said he ordered the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) to investigate and establish a clear account of the incident, in coordination with the National Bureau of Investigation.
He also relieved two commanders, including the Palawan provincial director, noting the incident could have been prevented with proper supervision.
He directed the CIDG and the Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management (DIDM) to expedite the probe.
“We are thoroughly investigating this. The questions that need to be answered is why they were not in uniform when we are in full alert status. And why are they under the influence of liquor,” the PNP chief said.
Initial reports said the operation stemmed from a mauling at a wake on Friday, where intoxicated men attacked two individuals who later sought police assistance.
Tensions escalated during questioning, leading to a brief gunfight around 10:30 p.m.
Police Regional Office 4B director Brig. Gen. Jovencio Badua Jr. said Col. Dennis Ladub de Leon has been designated acting chief of the Puerto Princesa City Police Office, replacing Col. Cristine Meris Tabdi, “to ensure focused leadership and supervision in support of ongoing operations and the investigation.”
In a statement, the PPCPO said it will “ensure strong case build-up and intensify operations to identify, locate, and apprehend the suspect/s.”
Nartatez reminded officers to remain vigilant when responding to calls and conducting operations. (PNA)
