PNP-Laguna head sacked for slay suspect’s escape

STA. CRUZ, Laguna — Philippine National Police chief Deputy Director General Leandro Mendoza relieved yesterday this province’s police director for failure to recapture or re-arrest the suspected killer of activist-lawyer Clarence Agarao.

At the same time, Mendoza ordered the Laguna police to dig deeper into the mysterious escape of Agarao’s self-confessed killer Luisito San Juan from his detention cell at the police headquarters here on Jan. 21.

In a message aired for him by Police Director Rex Piad, incoming PNP directorial staff head, Mendoza said the relief of Superintendent Wilfredo Dulay as Laguna police director, must serve as an example for the unwavering PNP task to serve and protect the people.

Dulay was given 10 days to recapture or re-arrest San Juan but he failed to do so.

He was replaced by Superintendent Leonilo dela Cruz, the current provincial director of Southern Leyte. Dela Cruz was also given two weeks to recapture or re-arrest San Juan or face the same fate.

During a simple turnover ceremonies held at the provincial headquarters here, Dela Cruz urged San Juan to surrender peacefully or face a shoot to kill order if the latter fights and evades arrest. — Rene Alviar, Christina Mendez