PNP official, 14 other cops held amid missing 'sabungero' probe

At least 15 policemen, including an official with a rank of lieutenant colonel, were placed under restrictive custody at Camp Crame in Quezon City amid the ongoing investigation into the case of missing “sabungero” (cockfighting enthusiasts), a top official of the Philippine National Police (PNP) confirmed on Monday, July 7.

- By AARON RECUENCO

PNP chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III said the 15 policemen were assigned in various units, including those in the regions, adding that 14 of them are in active service while another one is due for retirement.

Torre clarified that the police investigation will not focus on the alleged involvement of the 15 policemen they already identified, explaining that more policemen would be probed depending on the outcome of the ongoing investigation.

"We will not stop these 15 policemen, we will leave no stones unturned. There may be some personalities that may be identified along the investigation and what is important for us is to give justice to the victims," said Torre.

"These incidents are grisly, not acceptable by any standards and that's why we have firm resolve to solve this," he added.