Baste Duterte ‘condemns’ removal of Davao City cops due to alleged drug-related killings

Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte on Sunday condemned the removal of 35 Davao police personnel from their duties due to alleged drug-related killings.

Among the relieved personnel was Davao City Police chief P/Colonel Richard Bad-ang who was also placed under administrative suspension. 

Police Regional Office-Davao said Bad-ang was suspended so as to not influence the investigation. 

“I oppose any efforts to undermine the hard-earned trust between our community and law enforcement,” Duterte said in a statement posted on his official Facebook page.

In a GMA Regional TV report, Bad-ang was removed from his position in line with the probe conducted by the Regional Internal Affairs Service-Davao on the alleged drug-related killings in March 2024.

"The Davao City Police Office has consistently shown remarkable effectiveness in maintaining peace and order in our city. Our records indicate a significant 69% decrease in focus crimes comparing May CY 2023 to May CY 2024. This accomplishment reflects the dedication and competence of our police force, working hand in hand with my administration.", the mayor said.

From March 23 to 26, seven drug suspects were killed in separate buy-bust operations, four days after Duterte declared a war on illegal drugs in Davao.

“There is substantial evidence supporting the assertion that the buy-bust operations were conducted within the bounds of the law,” Duterte said.

“I call for transparency and accountability in handling this matter and for the immediate reinstatement of the unfairly relieved officers,” he added.—RF, GMA Integrated News