Mauled cop given 3 days to explain side
The policeman who was mauled and disarmed by a group of men inside a beerhouse was given three days to explain his side to the Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Branch of the city police.
Cebu City Police Office director Sr. Supt. Patrocinio Comendador told The Freeman that PO1 Jose Randel Buscato, 33, would possibly be dismissed from service if he is found lying.
Buscato, a member of the Pardo Police Station, was mauled last Monday morning by four men inside a beerhouse along
Buscato claimed he was asked to intervene in a verbal argument involving his friend, John Bungsalot. But when he approached, he said he was immediately mauled by the four men despite introducing himself as a policeman.
He was then reportedly disarmed by the perpetrators who even tried to shoot him.
But the investigators learned from some witnesses that Buscato was actually drinking during that time with his friend and got into trouble with those in the next table.
Witnesses said Buscato went to the next table and slammed his gun, prompting the men to maul and disarm him.
Comendador ordered an investigation into the incident due to the conflicting testimonies between the policeman and those of the witnesses.
Comendador said the punishment for dishonesty is dismissal from service but added that Buscato could still avail himself of due process.
One of the perpetrators has already been identified and police have learned that they are members of a notorious fraternity.
But Comendador said it would be a big help to the investigation if the perpetrators will surface to execute affidavits and surrender the firearm.
He explained that the failure of the perpetrators to turn over the firearm after the incident could mean they have the malice to steal it while mauling the policeman.
According to him, the perpetrators may face charges of direct assault, frustrated homicide and robbery with physical injuries. — Edwin Ian Melecio/LPM
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