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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider CHR to probe death of 'autistic' teenager in police operation in Valenzuela City

CHR to probe death of 'autistic' teenager in police operation in Valenzuela City

Published May 26, 2021 01:06 pm

Commission on Human Rights

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has decided to conduct “motu proprio” (on its own initiative) an investigation into the May 23 police operation in Valenzuela City where a teenager with alleged special needs was killed.

The teenager, who had been reportedly diagnosed with autism, was identified as Edwin Armigo, 18 years old. Published reports stated that Armigo was said to have been shot by a police officer during a raid on an illegal cockpit.

CHR Spokesperson and lawyer Jacqueline Ann de Guia said that there were "contradicting narratives" given by the police and eyewitnesses, and the statements given by Armigo's family differ from the stories on how the police ended up shooting him.

"At this point, discovering the truth in the incident should be a priority," stressed de Guia.

But the CHR has welcomed the action of Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Guillermo Lorenzo T. Eleazar to immediately place in restrictive custody the officers involved in the operation to ensure the integrity of investigation, she said.

The CHR likewise welcomed the commitment made by Valenzuela City Mayor Rex Gatchalian to get to the bottom of the incident, she added.

"Pending the results of our investigation, we urge the police force to be more discerning on the use of force during police operations," De Guia suggested.

"Every police officer is reminded of their duty to serve and protect life. Use of heavy-handed tactics which are unwarranted and prohibited under PNP operational procedures must be dealt with accordingly," she stressed.

Should the use of force be necessary, De Guia said that a warning must first be issued and the force to be employed should only be to neutralize resistance and subdue clear and imminent danger.

At the same time, the CHR reminded the PNP of the Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials, as adopted by the United Nations Congress on the Prevention of Crime and the Treatment of Offenders.

Under the principle, “law enforcement officials, in carrying out their duty, shall, as far as possible, apply non-violent means before resorting to the use of force and firearms."

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