NBI probes driver’s slay in Albay sting

MANILA, Philippines — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is investigating the death of a rent-a-car driver who was reportedly killed during a police anti-drug operation in Oas, Albay last month.

Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra ordered the NBI to investigate the death of Jose Maria Arvin Bautista, 28, who was one of three persons killed in a sting on July 20.

Aside from Bautista, the other fatalities were Ramon Mutuc, 44, reportedly a member of a criminal group, and Gregorio Garcia, 42, a mechanic, both of Valenzuela City.

Police earlier said Mutuc was arrested after he allegedly sold 10 grams of shabu to an undercover agent.

Probers recovered from the scene 350 grams of shabu with an estimated street value of P1.7 million, three handguns and P40,000 in marked money.

Justice Undersecretary Adrian Ferdinand Sugay said Bautista’s family might have sought the help of the department, which prompted Guevarra to order the NBI probe.

Earlier, relatives of Bautista sought the help of the NBI after an autopsy conducted on the body of the victim showed signs of torture.

The family also asked for a copy of the spot report, but the police reportedly denied the request, saying the investigation was ongoing.