2 cops who "tortured" guard being probed

CEBU, Philippines - The Lapu-Lapu City Police Office has formally started its investigation of two police officers who are being accused of beating a security officer of a mall last July 5.

Lapu-Lapu City Police chief Senior Inspector Rey Lyndon Lawas said he has directed Chief Inspector Andres Intong of the Investigation and Detective Management Bureau to investigate Senior Inspector William Homoc and PO2 Philip Von Delima.

Lawas said he has ordered an investigation after his office received complaints from security guard Roger Mancao, who is represented by his legal counsel Lawyer Inocensio dela Cerna.

Aside from possible administrative charges, both Homoc and Delima could also face separate criminal charges.

Homoc and Delima have filed charges of acts of lasciviousness against Mancao, but Mancao has been released by the Lapu-Lapu City Prosecutor’s Office.

Dela Cerna said they will file criminal charges against the two police officers.

The investigation will center on the allegation that Homoc and Delima allegedly tortured Mancao, who is suspected of molesting a 15-year-old girl last July 3.

The girl was allegedly caught shoplifting inside the mall where Mancao works as security officer.

Mancao had told police investigators that he made the girl sign a promissory note, which indicated she will not do it again.

Mancao said the girl gave him a hug to express her gratitude after everything was settled.

However, he said the two police officers have allegedly made false charges against him to exact revenge on him.

The girl is reportedly Homoc’s niece.  - THE FREEMAN