The nine police officers involved in the shooting incident in Jolo, Sulu faced the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) for the first time but refused to issue a statement regarding the incident. They decided to give an affidavit if the case reaches preliminary investigation, a decision that the NBI respects.
However, according to NBI Deputy Director Atty. Antonio Pagatpat, “Without their explanation, the Bureau will be constrained to evaluate and submit our recommendation based on the evidence gathered in the course of our investigation.”
The NBI disclosed that the Philippine National Police (PNP) has been coordinating with the agency and has given the records of the policemen involved used in the profiling of the case.
“We will continue to cooperate with the investigation and make the 9 cops available anytime needed,” PNP Spokesperson PBGen. Bernard Banac said.
Meanwhile, the NBI Western Mindanao believes that the evidences found are enough. There are more than ten witnesses of the shooting. The NBI may submit their recommendation to the Department of Justice (DOJ) regarding the incident before the end of the week.
“The NBI will find out the truth and we will inform the public and I appeal to both the parties, AFP and PNP, let’s be calm muna tayo” NBI OIC Eric Distor stated. – Report from Bea Bernardo
