PNP orders probe into 'secret meetings' in missing sabungeros case

The Philippine National Police (PNP) said Friday it has ordered a thorough investigation into the alleged “secret meetings” of relatives of missing sabungeros and dismissed cops linked to the case.

In a statement, PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the investigation aims to determine whether more police officers are involved in facilitating the meetings.

“Any action outside of what the PNP should do is not only a betrayal of our mandate but also of the trust and confidence of the people we serve,” Nartatez said.

“Let us always allow our moral compass to lead the way towards the integrity and professionalism of our organization,” he added.

Highway Patrol Group spokesperson Police Lieutenant Nadame Malang and PNP Custodial Center’s Police Major Reynaldo Pañebe Jr. have been relieved from their posts over their alleged interference in the case.

On Wednesday, some complainants in the missing sabungeros case filed administrative complaints with the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) against the two cops.

The complainants said the two police officers facilitated and assisted their visit to the accused in the missing sabungeros case in the Camp Crame detention facility.

They also claimed that several original complainants withdrew from the case after allegedly receiving P40,000 monthly financial support in exchange for backing out of the complaint.

GMA News Online has sought comment from Malang and the PNP Headquarters Support Service for Pañebe about the matter but they have yet to respond as of posting time.

The PNP said its investigation would be conducted without favoritism and any officer proven to have improperly intervened in the case would be held accountable. — RSJ, GMA News