DOJ chief confirms probe on Davao death squad

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Justice (DOJ) has confirmed its investigation on the alleged unexplained killings perpetrated by the Davao death squad (DDS) and the supposed involvement of presidential candidate Mayor Rodrigo Duterte in the group.

Acting DOJ Secretary Emmanuel Caparas confirmed a recent report of The STAR that there is an ongoing fact-finding probe by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI)’s death investigation division on the existence of the DDS.

“Yes, it’s in investigation stage,” Caparas said in an interview.

Caparas explained that the issue has reached the department prior to his appointment as DOJ interim secretary earlier this year.

He said the allegations linking Duterte to the group allegedly behind unexplained killings of suspected criminals in Davao were considered “speculative, rumor or urban legend” until last year.

“Since it reached the DOJ, we take it seriously. It was brought to the DOJ’s attention last year and it remains in the radar. There are agencies looking into the allegations,” Caparas said.

Caparas, however, refused to discuss any development in the probe until the NBI has submitted its report to the DOJ.

“I can’t say that there is (development) until I read the report,” he said.

Caparas admitted that NBI probers have faced several challenges in the probe since last year.

“There are matters or leads initially being pursued that would fade and later on surface again. Let’s just say the investigation is taking place,” he explained.

The STAR earlier reported that a possible state witness, who used to be part of the DDS and has personal knowledge about the killings, has remained in government custody.

The NBI is in the process of verifying the information provided in the affidavit of the witness, who has been placed under the witness protection program.

In June last year, then DOJ secretary and now senatorial candidate Leila de Lima revealed plans to investigate Duterte for his alleged involvement in the unexplained killings.

De Lima said the allegations against the DDS and the mayor were “very serious and disturbing” and that the NBI would validate and build the case.

Duterte, who has been leading in pre-election surveys, was earlier quoted in reports admitting his ties to the DDS. But he explained that he only replied to a question in jest and that he was referring to the Davao Development System.

In March 2015, the NBI filed murder charges with the DOJ against former mayor Rey Uy of Tagum, Davao del Norte and 28 others for their alleged involvement in a death squad similar to the DDS.