PNP Chief confirms cops involved in “missing sabungeros” case were active police personnel

• PNP Chief Nicolas Torre III announced that the majority of 15 police personnel, including a Lieutenant Colonel, linked to the "missing sabungeros" case are active officers

• Chief Torre indicated that more than 15 police personnel might be involved, and the bodies of the missing "sabungeros" may not be limited to a single location like Taal Lake

• The confirmation sparked strong public reactions online, with many expressing anger over perceived corruption and demanding justice for the missing individuals and accountability for those involved, including high-profile figures

• The revelation highlights the complexity of the "missing sabungeros" case, prompting serious concerns about public trust in law enforcement and emphasizing the PNP's commitment to a thorough investigation to bring perpetrators to justice

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has confirmed that the majority of the fifteen police personnel implicated in the high-profile disappearances of several "sabungeros," or cockfight enthusiasts, are still active members and commissioned officers of the force.

PNP Chief Nicolas Torre III made the revealing announcement, adding that the highest-ranking officer allegedly involved holds the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

The confirmation from the top police official marks a significant development in the investigation into the mysterious disappearances that have gripped the nation.

The "missing sabungeros" case involves at least 34 individuals who vanished between April 2021 and January 2022, primarily in connection with online cockfighting, or e-sabong.

The series of disappearances prompted widespread public outcry, a Senate inquiry, and ultimately led to the suspension of e-sabong operations nationwide.

PNP Chief Torre did not rule out the possibility that the number of police personnel involved could exceed the initial fifteen, suggesting the scope of the alleged involvement might be wider than currently known.

Furthermore, he indicated that the bodies of the missing individuals might not be confined to a single location, such as Taal Lake, where some previous search efforts have focused.

This statement hints at the complexity and possibly widespread nature of the alleged crimes.

The revelation that active police officers, including those in senior ranks, are being linked to such grave offenses raises serious concerns about accountability within the law enforcement ranks and public trust in the institutions meant to protect citizens.

The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) has been at the forefront of the investigation, previously filing charges against both police personnel and civilians in connection with some of the disappearances.

The ongoing investigation has been a long and arduous process, fraught with challenges in tracing the missing individuals and identifying those responsible.

The issue of police involvement, however, adds another layer of complexity and sensitivity to the case.

News of Chief Torre's confirmation quickly circulated online, drawing immediate and strong reactions from the public.

Social media comments reflected a mix of anger, disillusionment, and renewed calls for justice. Many users expressed frustration over corruption within government and law enforcement.

These public sentiments highlight the widespread desire for transparency and decisive action.

The PNP maintains its commitment to a thorough and impartial investigation, vowing to bring all those responsible, regardless of rank or affiliation, to justice.

The chief's latest statements underscore the internal efforts being undertaken by the PNP to address the grave allegations and ensure accountability within its ranks.

The resolution of the "missing sabungeros" case remains a critical test for the country's justice system.

News, photos, or videos that arouse the interest of netizens would often go viral on social media, due to the attention netizens give them. These viral posts appeal to the emotions of netizens, and in rare cases, this could also happen to ordinary people, making them very relatable.

Last month, CPNP Torre III confirmed that the 81-year-old wrongly jailed man is entitled to compensation under a law for the wrongfully convicted, with the amount depending on court ruling. The National Union of Peoples’ Lawyers (NUPL) condemnedthe six-month detention of Prudencio “Tatay Pruding” Calubid Jr., saying he was mistaken for a missing CPP-NPA leader last seen in 2006. NUPL criticized the reward system, pointing to the ₱7.8 million bounty on the real Calubid as a factor that encourages results over due process, endangering innocent civilians. The Court of Appeals ruled that police failed to conduct proper verification before arresting the elderly man, leading to his wrongful imprisonment.

Previously, the CPNP ordered all officers to meet fitness standards. Overweight cops must pass the annual physical fitness test, Abante reported. Two consecutive failures will bar officers from promotions and training. The policy aims to improve both performance and public image of the police.

Source: KAMI.com.gh