PNP probes human rights violations in anti-drugs operations

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Thursday revealed that it also investigates possible human rights violations committed by policemen during anti-drug operations.

At least 30 drug suspects have been killed and more than 900 drug users and pushers have surrendered since the inauguration of President Rodrigo Duterte on June 30.

READ: Weekend drug toll: 18 die, 952 surrender

PNP spokesperson Senior Superintendent Dionardo Carlos said the deaths in anti-drugs operations are automatically being investigated.

"Our Internal Affairs Service can immediately look into the case if they have violations. If they do not follow our operations protocol, we will make them answer," Carlos said in an interview with ANC's Headstart on Thursday.

Carlos added that police officers found guilty of violating the law or procedures would face charges.

"The chief PNP has said that we will make sure that we protect the rights of the citizenry in police operations when there are deaths," Carlos said.

Earlier this week, Duterte named five police generals allegedly involved in the illegal drug trade — former PNP deputy director general Marcelo Garbo Jr., Director Joel Pagdilao, Chief Superintendents Bernardo Diaz and Edgardo Tinio and retired police general Vicente Loot.

PNP chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa said the president might name more police officials involved in illegal drugs.