Novaliches cop chief, jail guard relieved from posts after detainee dies in custody

Philippine National Police chief Director General Oscar Albayalde on Thursday relieved from their posts the commander of Novaliches Police Station and the jail guard on duty after a detainee Genesis Argoncillo alias "Tisoy" died in custody.

National Capital Region Police Office director Chief Superintendent Guillermo Eleazar confirmed that Quezon City Police Station 4 commander Superintendent Carlito Grijaldo and the jail guard Police Officer 3 Dennis Saño were relieved from their posts effective Thursday pending result of the investigation on the death of Argoncillo.

Argoncillo who was allegedly arrested for "alarm and scandal" last June 15 and was detained at the Novaliches Police Station died due to difficulty in breathing, the Quezon City Police District Police claimed.

The police said there were "no signs of external injuries" as opposed to the claim of Argoncillo's sister Marilou.

"We would like to make it clear there was no violent and inhumane treatment on Arconcillo contrary to the allegations of the family, citing a supposed broken rib and bruise marks on the cadaver," the QCPD said in a statement.

"These are mere conjectures until an autopsy is performed. Besides, our policemen are under strict orders to follow the PNP protocols calling for rights-based treatment of suspects and detainees," it added.

Police also belied allegations that Argoncillo was arrested due to the implementation of city ordinances or the “anti-tambay” operations.

“Siya ay inaresto dahil sa pagwawala nito at rumesponde lamang ang ating mga kapulisan,” the QCPD said. —NB, GMA News