Napolcom probes lady cop linked to Tacloban shooting
TACLOBAN CITY — While families of the slain and wounded students in the school shooting here cry for justice, the National Police Commission will conduct its own motu proprio investigation to determine the administrative liability of a female police officer linked to the fatal shooting incident at San Jose National High School on Monday.
In an statement, Napolcom Commissioner Rafael Vicente Calinisan confirmed that the probe will focus on the officer, identified as the aunt of one of the suspects.
She is the registered owner of the 9 mm Glock pistol reportedly used in the attack that claimed three lives and injured 20 others.
“I have directed our Napolcom Regional Director of Region 8 Director Risty Sibay to expedite their investigation. This investigation will run parallel, and in coordination with the investigation being conducted by the Philippine National Police,” he added.
Reportedly, the officer may be held accountable for either intentional or negligent failure to secure her issued service firearm, resulting in unauthorized access and use by a minor relative.
“This intentional or negligent act of the policewoman in allowing her nephew to use her issued firearm led to the death of three teenagers, and the wounding of many others. She has a lot of explaining to do.”
Depending on the results of the regional investigation, the policewoman may face formal charges of grave misconduct or grave neglect of duty. These offenses carry penalties ranging from suspension or demotion up to dismissal from the police service.
“We are one with our Taclobanon brothers and sisters, and the whole nation, in seeking for justice regarding this incident,” Calinisan added.