CHR probing possible human rights violations in Sept. 21 Manila protest

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) will conduct its own inquiry into possible human rights violations in Manila during the September 21 protests against corruption related to the anomalous flood control projects.

This includes alleged media harassment and the use of police force.

“Monitoring of cases and developments remains ongoing, including reports of the harassment of media personnel at one protest site. The CHR will likewise continue to monitor the condition of detained individuals, particularly minors,” the commission said in a statement.

“Further impartial inquiry will also be undertaken regarding reports that law enforcement authorities may have violated the police rules of procedure on the use of force, and to determine whether grave human rights violations were committed,” it added.

The Manila Police District (MPD) reported that a total of 216 persons, of whom 89 are minors, were arrested by the police amid the protest in Manila.

Meanwhile, more than 100 police officers were injured.

A viral video online caught a Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) member dragging a boy, who allegedly caused a disturbance during the protest, inside a hotel in Manila, where the latter was beaten by some men.

MPD spokesperson Major Philipp Ines told GMA News Online that inquest proceedings of the arrested protesters are ongoing at the MPD headquarters on Tuesday. — BM, GMA Integrated News