CHR probes teen’s death in Laguna drug sting

CAMP VICENTE LIM, Laguna, Philippines — The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has started its investigation into the killing of a 16-year-old boy and his companion in a drug sting in Biñan, Laguna.

CHR-Calabarzon director Rex Guevarra said they have dispatched a team to gather facts and get the testimonies of witnesses as well as the statements of the relatives of Maglinte and Dalit.

“If there is evidence and proof, we will recommend the filing of administrative charges for grave misconduct against the police officers,“ Guevarra said.

He said the Internal Affairs Service of the Philippine National Police is conducting a parallel probe.

Calabarzon police director Brig. Gen Eliseo Cruz also directed the Regional Investigation and Detective Management Division to lead a fact-finding task group.

Cruz ordered the Laguna police to provide full assistance to the investigators as well as the families of the slain suspects.

The 10 policemen placed under restrictive custody in connection with the incident have tested negative for powder burns, an official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, claimed yesterday.

On the other hand, the slain suspects, teenager Johndy Maglinte and Antonio Dalit, tested positive for powder burns, the source added.

The two allegedly resisted arrest and shot it out with anti-drug operatives in Barangay Canlalay on Wednesday. Two caliber .38 revolvers were allegedly recovered from the fatalities.