Police abuses reported in Mindanao probed by CHR

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Saturday said it is conducting a motu propio investigation into the recent cases of abuse allegedly committed by some police personnel in Mindanao.

In a statement, the CHR recalled the case of a 16-year-old minor in Don Marcelino, Davao Occidental, who reported at the police station about the alleged physical abuse he suffered from his father.

But instead of receiving assistance, the minor was allegedly maltreated by some police officers when they brought the victim into a dark room and poured a solution of vinegar and chili on his private area.

According to the CHR, the officers then reportedly threatened the victim to keep silent about the incident.

“CHR welcomes the action of the Police Regional Office XI to file criminal and administrative charges against the three police officers who allegedly committed cruel acts to a minor in Davao Occidental," said CHR in a statement. 

Meanwhile, in Zamboanga City, a waiter died after being tackled and escorted by three Zamboanga City police officers.

Prior to the incident, the waiter reportedly had a heated argument with a retired police major at a bar that led into a fistfight.

The waiter supposedly declined to serve beer to the retired official, who was a stroke survivor and was advised against drinking by his fellow retired officer and his son.

“The Commission expresses grave concern on these reported incidents of alleged police abuse and cruelty. As duty-bearers who must ‘serve and protect’ the people, including vulnerable individuals, such as minors and service workers, it is expected that police officers exercise their authority in accordance with the rules and standards required of public officers,” the CHR added. —Jamil Santos/ VAL, GMA Integrated News