PNP: No proof so far that 16-year old drug suspect, companion were executed in Laguna
The Philippine National Police (PNP) said on Monday, June 28, that the preliminary investigation they conducted did not show any proof that the 16-year old suspected drug pusher in Biñan City and another suspected drug dealer who were killed in a police operation on June 16 were executed.
But PNP Chief Gen. Guillermo Lorenzo Eleazar said the 10 policemen who took part in the operation, along with their unit commander, were subjected to pre-charge evaluation for possible grave irregularity in the conduct of the operation that resulted in the death of 16-year-old Jhondi Helis and Antonio Dalit.
Citing result of the initial investigation, Eleazar said that the two tested positive for paraffin test and there were no markings found on their wrists that would indicate that they were already handcuffed when repeatedly shot as initially claimed by their relatives.
The three witnesses who submitted affidavits to the police did not witness the shooting but all of them attested that the two were known drug pushers in their community.
Eleazar also reported that Dalit’s family, particularly the drug suspect’s sister, has expressed no interest to pursue complaints against the Laguna police operatives for the death of their kin.
“Lydia Dalit said the family believes there was no overkill and that they are aware that Tala is a known drug pusher and ex-convict,” Eleazar said.
Eleazar, however, said that the investigation is not yet final since they are still waiting for the testimony of the mother of Helis who promised to give her affidavit after the burial of her son.
He then renewed his appeal for witnesses to the June 16 incident to come forward and provide their sworn statements on claims that the two were handcuffed when they were shot by operatives of the Laguna Police Intelligence Unit (PIU).
"I appeal to the all the witnesses who saw the entire incident to come forward for us to find out what really happened. I guarantee your protection," said Eleazar.
"I also offer myself, they could personally go to me to shed light on the incident," he added.