Matnog cops under probe over 2 stay-out inmates

By Connie Calipay

The chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Bicol on Jan. 20 ordered the Sorsogon police to conduct a thorough investigation on how two inmates, who were supposed to be inside their detention facility in Matnog town, were able to freely come in and out of jail.

Maj. Malu Calubaquib, PNP Bicol spokesperson, said a report of the PNP Integrity Monitoring and Enforcement Group stated that the two inmates were arrested during an entrapment operation after being spotted aboard a motorcycle without a plate number at the town’s public market on Jan. 18.

“The two are identified as JR G. Genablazo from Camachilles, Matnog, Sorsogon, who is facing a case for violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 and Pedro F. Garote, from Sta. Isabel, Matnog, Sorsogon, who is facing rape charges,” Calubaquib said.

We have laws and rules to be followed in handling persons under police custody that’s why I ordered a thorough investigation to see the lapses committed by our personnel at the Matnog Municipal Police Station, Brig. Gen. Jonnel Estomo said.

Estomo noted that in recent months, the Police Regional Office 5 has intensified efforts to implement laws to capture wanted persons, saying that giving justice to crime victims is their utmost priority, along with maintaining peace in the region.

“We have been working hard to deliver what is expected from us. We have also infused and constantly reminded our people to perform their duty with discipline and utmost professionalism. At kung mayroon pa ring pulis sa aming hanay na patuloy ang pagkakasangkot sa kahit na anong iregularidad at iligal na gawain ay hindi namin pahihintulutan at kukunsintihin,” he said.

“Kasurog cops are dedicated to doing their mandate in protecting every Bicolano,” he added. (PNA)