Over 70 BARMM cops relieved over alleged hazing incident
The entire Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB) 14-B in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao has been relieved following an alleged hazing incident in Lamitan City, Basilan.
Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro regional director Brig. Gen. Jaysen de Guzman sacked over 70 officers, including 12 non-commissioned cops, and placed them under restrictive custody. Supervisors may face administrative sanctions under the principle of command responsibility.
The Philippine National Police condemned the incident, which occurred from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Feb. 5 after the reception rites for non-commissioned officers from basic internal security operations training.
According to reports, the recruits were allegedly made to walk duck walking, rolling on the ground, and struck with wooden sticks.
One of the newly assigned members of the RMFB has filed a case, with 18 others making statements. Some 110 may also speak out, while 30 personnel underwent medical examination to document their injuries, which include bruises and hematoma.
"The PNP strictly bans any form of hazing," PNP spokesman Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño said. "We must focus only on professionalism, discipline and respect for every member. There is zero tolerance, and those proven liable will face criminal and administrative charges."
In a statement on Facebook, National Police Commission Commissioner Ralph Calinisan said that he has directed a motu proprio investigation into the incident.
"Hazing is illegal. The NAPOLCOM will not tolerate any and all forms of hazing in the PNP organization. Rest assured that we will expedite the investigation and the resolution of this case," he wrote.
"Tamaan ang dapat tamaan."
Republic Act No. 11053, or the Anti-Hazing Act of 2018, amends RA 8049, imposing a penalty of reclusion perpetua and a fine of P2 million on individuals behind hazing rites that may result in the death, rape, sodomy, or mutilation of a prospective member. (with reports from Mark Ernest Villeza)
