7 PNPA cadets, 2 police officers face criminal raps over hazing incident

Criminal charges have been filed against seven Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) cadets and two police officers in connection with a hazing incident in the institution, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said Wednesday.

The accused cadets include five third class cadets and two second class cadets, PNP spokesperson Police Brigadier General Randulf Tuaño confirmed to GMA News Online.

Also included in the complaint are two police officers, identified as a police commissioned officer and a police non-commissioned officer. 

The respondents were charged for violating the Anti-Hazing Act of 2018.

Over 20 fourth class cadets sustained injuries from the hazing incident inside the academy on Good Friday, April 3.

The victims reportedly suffered burns and injuries after being exposed to a mixture of drain cleaner and muriatic acid, according to the PNP.

Three suspects were initially arrested and four more suspects have been identified.

Following the incident, the PNPA director and eight other officers have been relieved from their posts.

Initial findings showed that the hazing stemmed from an internal issue involving a cadet who intended to resign, with underclassmen allegedly punished after being blamed for the situation. — VDV, GMA News