LTO-Bohol enforcers suspended for ‘manhandling’ rider

MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has suspended several traffic enforcers for allegedly harassing a motorcycle driver they caught carrying a bladed weapon in Panglao, Bohol on Friday.

The incident sparked outrage on social media after a netizen uploaded a video showing five LTO men dragging the man off his motorcycle.

The man reportedly identified himself as a farmer, saying he is using the knife when working in his farm.

The man was reportedly a brother of a former vice mayor.

The enforcers reportedly ignored the man, seized the knife and dragged him off his motorcycle.

The suspension was based on an order issued by Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon.

LTO chief Vigor Mendoza yesterday said the LTO-Central Visayas has been ordered to implement the suspension until a thorough investigation is concluded.

Mendoza said he directed LTO-Central Visayas chief Glen Galario to coordinate with a probe team tasked to hold accountable those involved in the incident.

Bohol Gov. Aris Aumentado condemned the incident, describing it as an “abuse of authority.”

The LTO-Central Visayas has apologized for the incident.