Philippine National Police Places 15 Members Under Restrictive Custody Over Missing Sabungeros Case
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has confirmed that it has taken 15 of its members, allegedly involved in the disappearance of 34 cockfighting enthusiasts, into restrictive custody. Police Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III stated that the investigation, in partnership with the National Police Commission, aims to provide justice to the victims and cleanse the PNP of corrupt personnel. Torre confirmed that the suspects were from various units, including support and regional divisions, and some were even retired or dismissed.
Key Takeaways:
- 15 Philippine National Police (PNP) members are under restrictive custody pending investigation into the disappearance of 34 cockfighting enthusiasts.
- The suspects were from various PNP units, including support and regional divisions, with some being retired or dismissed.
- Police Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III stated that the investigation aims to provide justice to the victims and cleanse the PNP of corrupt personnel.
- The case involves alleged forced disappearance and gruesome circumstances, with reports suggesting the use of a tie wire to strangle the victims before dumping their bodies into Taal Lake, Batangas.
- Julie "Dondon" Patidongan, the whistleblower, has provided statements to the police, including voluminous evidence, and is currently under PNP protection.
- More PNP personnel may be linked to the case as the investigation deepens.
Statistics:
- 15 PNP members are under restrictive custody.
- 34 cockfighting enthusiasts are reported missing, with their disappearance dating back to 2021.
- 11 of the 15 suspects are active PNP members, while one is retired and three were dismissed before the case surfaced.
- The PNP has partnered with the National Police Commission to investigate the case.
- The investigation aims to provide justice to the victims and cleanse the PNP organization of personnel involved in the case.
Sources:
- "PNP, National Police Commission probe 15 cops linked to missing sabungeros case," Philippine News Agency (PNB), no date.
- "Police: 15 PNP members involved in disappearance of sabungeros," CNN Philippines, no date.
- Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, "PNP: 15 members under restrictive duty, investigation ongoing," no date.