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PNP on mismatched death certificates: We follow justice system


The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Friday said it adhered to the judicial system after a Reuters special report pointed out cases of death certificates which did not match the actual causes of deaths of casualties in the government's war on drugs.

“While the PNP respects the pronouncements made by other agencies or group regarding the illegal drug cases involving police personnel, this organization has maintained its position to adhere to the judicial system,” it said in a statement.

“The PNP has always shown willingness to cooperate in any proceeding by providing the necessary documents as properly requested by the courts or other investigating bodies,” it added.

After months of following forensic pathologist Raquel Fortun, Reuters reported that the death certificates of at least 15 drug war victims did not reflect the violent manner in which police and family members said they died.

Those death certificates said the deceased had succumbed to natural causes such as pneumonia or hypertension instead of saying they were shot, it added.

PNP said it would investigate whenever a police officer was reported to have violated the law or code of conduct. It added that it imposed penalties randing from suspension to dismissal from service.

“Rest assured that the PNP will take necessary actions by filing administrative and criminal cases against those personnel allegedly involved in illegal drugs,” it said. —Joviland Rita/NB, GMA News

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