6 Cotabao cops relieved for assaulting PDEA agent

MANILA, Philippines — Six police officers assigned in Cotabato City have been relieved from their posts for allegedly assaulting a member of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), according to the Bangsamoro police.

The officers reportedly arrested the PDEA agent on Nov. 11 for allegedly violating Republic Act 9995 or the Anti-Photo and Video Voyeurism Act.

Brig. Gen. Jaysen de Guzman, Bangsamoro police director, said that video footage of a closed-circuit television camera showed that during the arrest, the officers assaulted the PDEA agent.

The video showed the officers taking turns in punching and kicking the PDEA agent

One of the officers was seen hitting the agent with a hard object before reading the Miranda rights.

“I ordered the immediate relief of those officers and directed the chief of the Cotabato City police to conduct an investigation,” De Guzman said in a message to The STAR.

The officers, whose identities were withheld pending results of the investigation, were placed under restrictive custody.

The PDEA agent denied that he comitted cyber-sextortion, saying that he and the complainant had a consensual relationship.

Although the police operation was legitimate, De Guzman said the Philippine National Police does not tolerate abuse, use of excessive force and misconduct committed by any officer.

He reminded members of the Bangsamoro police to observe lawful and proper conduct in carrying out law enforcement operations.

“We also urge the public to remain vigilant and to continue supporting peace and order efforts by providing timely and relevant information,” De Guzman said.