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CHR conducts own probe on February 20 'abduction' of Jose Marie Estiller in Batangas
CHR conducts own probe on February 20 'abduction' of Jose Marie Estiller in Batangas
The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has mobilized a Quick Response Operation (QRO) and started its own probe on the alleged abduction of Jose Marie Estiller in Batangas last Feb. 20.
CCTV footage obtained by the CHR showed that Estiller was abducted in broad daylight. He was approached by five armed and unidentified men who grabbed his shirt and dragged him against his will.
A statement from the Philippine National Police’s Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) said Estiller is “one of the two most wanted terrorists” in the Southern Tagalog region and that he “surrendered” to the Philippine Army’s 903rd Infantry Battalion.
The PNP-CIDG also said that Estiller is the subject of arrest warrants issued by separate courts in Manila and Sorsogon for multiple murder charges and violation of the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act under Republic Act No. 10591.
The CHR said: "This alarming incident raises serious concerns about the safety and security of not just certain individuals but the entire community.”
As the police investigation is currently ongoing, the CHR expressed "deep concern" over the incident and denounced any act of violence committed against any individual.
The CHR likewise reaffirmed its mandate to uphold and protect the rights of all and stressed that the protection of human rights and the rule of law are fundamental principles that must be upheld at all times.
"We urge all relevant agencies, particularly law enforcement, to conduct thorough and impartial investigations into this case, and to exhaust every option available to unveil Estiller's whereabouts," the CHR said.
"We also encourage all parties involved to fully cooperate with the ongoing investigation in order to uncover the truth and take appropriate actions. It is critical that those responsible for this incident are held accountable in accordance with the law," it said.
The CHR expressed hopes for a swift resolution and just administration of this case, as it joined the government and all relevant stakeholders in calling for an end to all forms of harassment, arbitrary attacks, and unlawful abduction.