Cop axed over domestic abuse

MANILA, Philippines — A police officer assigned in Malolos City, Bulacan has been relieved from duty, disarmed and placed under restrictive custody following the circulation of closed-circuit television footage showing him engaged in domestic abuse.

The relief came after the wife of the policeman posted online on Sunday a video showing him throwing punches at her during a heated argument.

In a statement, the Philippine National Police said administrative and criminal proceedings were initiated against the PNP officer.

“The concerned personnel has already been relieved from post, placed under restrictive custody and disarmed while the investigation is ongoing,” the PNP said.

It added that the PNP “remains committed to accountability, professionalism and the fair and impartial application of due process in addressing the incident.”

The Malolos City Police Station said the policeman is at the station’s holding unit while probers conduct a “thorough investigation.”

“We strongly condemn any form of violence against any person, especially women,” the Malolos police said in Filipino.

National Police Commission chief Rafael Calinisan said the Napolcom would investigate the administrative aspect of the case.

“We will not allow any form of violence against any woman, or any person for that matter. We will make sure that justice is served,” he said.

Calinisan described the incident as an “open-and-shut case” and directed Napolcom regional officials to talk to the victim and expedite the investigation.