SILG Remulla: 49 charged, sanctioned over alleged PNPA hazing

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla on Friday said 49 cadets of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) were charged and sanctioned in connection with an alleged hazing incident inside the school.

“Forty-nine were charged and seven were under arrest,” Remulla said at Kapihan ng Samahang Plaridel forum.

According to Remulla, 42 cadets were dismissed from the academy over dishonesty after failing to report the hazing incident to PNPA officials.

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 were relieved from their posts.

Criminal charges have been filed against seven PNPA cadets and two police officers.

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.

Another hazing incident inside the campus was discovered on April 19. Two cadets sustained bruises on their feet after allegedly being struck by two upperclassmen.

The two cadets involved were placed in custody. — BAP, GMA News