PNP Crime Lab reg'l head endorses relief of officer

The regional head of the PNP Crime Laboratory recommended last Friday the relief of medico legal officer Alexander Uy following a conflict between the latter and a fellow officer last month.

Superintendent Myrna Arriola sent the recommendation for Uy's relief to Crime Lab national director Ernesto Belen. She did not elaborate but said it was meant to diffuse a volatile tension between Uy and lab chemist Senior Insp. David Alexander Patriana.

A month ago, Patriana reported to the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group an incident he had with Uy.

On the CIDG blotter, Patriana narrated that Arriola first called him to her office informing him that Uy had requested to clear his things out of the table in Uy's office.

Patriana agreed but, on his way out of Arriola's office, he met and asked Uy why the latter did not tell him directly such simple matter but let it reach Arriola instead.

Uy reportedly did not answer so Patriana entered the medico-legal office and took out his things from a table. But on his way out, Uy followed and asked him, " Nagdadabog ka ba?" for which he answered, "Oo, bakit?"

Shortly after, Uy allegedly drew a handgun from his waist, aimed it at Patriana but fired it to the floor near Patriana's right foot. Patriana said he did not react but just left Uy still holding the gun.

Later at the lobby of the Crime Lab building, Uy allegedly grabbed Patriana's left shoulder forcing the latter to retaliate by punching Uy in the abdomen.

After Patriana reported the matter to the CIDG, he told reporters that he had consulted with his lawyer on his legal steps against Uy.

Arriola yesterday said "both officers" could be at fault but it would be better if she would wait for the decision of Belen, who only received her recommendation yesterday.

Uy would not go however, if there would be no replacement, said Arriola adding that the recommendation would most likely be granted especially that Uy had once requested Belen for transfer.