Cops told: Hew to rules of engagement

MANILA, Philippines - Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Jesus Verzosa reiterated yesterday that police officers should strictly follow operational procedures in their anti-crime operations.

Verzosa said he issued a directive following the controversy involving Quezon City’s anti-carjacking unit, whose policemen were caught on video apparently shooting a car theft suspect who was already sprawled on the ground Thursday night.

Verzosa, who ordered a thorough investigation into the incident, warned policemen who continue to ignore already established Police Operational Procedures (POP) in field operations that they will be severely punished.

“All personnel at all levels of command, particularly those who are assigned in field operations, should observe the already established rules of engagement,” he said.

Failure to do so would result in administrative sanctions, including termination from the service on top of the filing of criminal charges against any erring policemen, he said.

Verzosa emphasized that established rules of engagement are essential to ensuring the success of any police operation and, at the same time, serve to shield all police officers from any administrative and criminal charges.

“Every member of the police force should know the POP by heart. As policemen, we are bestowed with the utmost responsibility not only to enforce the law but also to strictly adhere to it,” he stressed.

Verzosa specifically cited the rules stated in the POP regarding the use of deadly force as well as the actions a police officer should take during and after an armed confrontation.

“There is a clear rule for policemen regarding the use of deadly force. In such instances, we recognize the presence of imminent danger not only to the police officers themselves but to civilians as well,” Verzosa explained.

In the case of last Thursday’s alleged rubout, Verzosa said it is too early to pass judgment on two anti-carjacking policemen seen firing their guns on the suspects in a stolen car.

He said National Capital Region Command (NCRPO) chief Director Leopoldo Bataoil has already ordered an investigation into the case as he assured that once probable cause is established, the policemen involved would be administrative and criminally charged.

At present, the two policemen involved are confined to their quarters at Camp Karingal while the head of the unit has been relieved of command.

PNP spokesman Chief Superintendent Nicanor Bartolome clarified that the use of firearms is justified based on the doctrine of self-defense and defense of the other individuals who may be compromised in the situation.

Bartolome also said policemen at all levels should always prioritize respect for human rights in all their operations.