Quezon City Rep. Alfred Vargas yesterday called on the National Police Commission to lead the investigation into the existence of an alleged secret detention cell for drug suspects arrested by Manila policemen.
Vargas issued the call as other House members backed a proposal by House Deputy Minority Leader and Kabayan party-list Rep. Harry Roque for a congressional inquiry into the controversy.
Reps. Rodito Albano (NP, Isabela), Gus Tambunting (PDP-Laban, Parañaque City), and Emmy Calixto-Rubiano (LP, Pasay City) sought an explanation from the Philippine National Police, saying that those behind the jail should be kicked out from the police service.
“This is not good at all. Napolcom should investigate this matter,” said Vargas.
He added: “If ever this is true, erring policemen must be penalized. It is unfortunate that this developed when the Korean who was murdered inside Camp Crame is still fresh in our minds.”
Roque vowed to file a resolution calling for a House probe on the secret detention cell as he stated that officers and personnel of the Manila Police District Station 1 in Tondo, Manila can be held liable for violation of Republic Act 9745 or the Anti-Torture Act of 2009.
Vargas’ proposal for a Napolcom probe is apparently anchored on the fact that the agency is not under the PNP, thus, guarantees a fair investigation and prevent whitewash. (Ben R. Rosario)