THE delivery truck helper who was reportedly flogged by a police officer inside the Carbon Police Station has lodged his complaint before the Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) to start the formal investigation.
CCPO Deputy Director for Operation Wilbert Parilla said on Friday, Feb. 12, 2021 that they encourage the truck helper to press for criminal charges against the police officer, who was already relieved from his post at the Carbon Police Station.
The truck helper was reportedly apprehensive to resort to legal action against the police officer for reasons not yet known, said Parilla.
However, Parilla said the administrative nature of the police officer’s case will continue even if the truck helper decides not to file a criminal complaint.
Parilla said the CCPO investigators have enough evidence to continue the inquiry and determine if the police officer committed a grave offense by hitting the truck helper with a paddle in the legs last Monday, Feb. 8. The police officer apprehended the truck helper for not wearing a mask in the vicinity of Carbon Public Market.
The result of the truck helper’s medical examination is also part of the evidence against the police officer, said Parilla.
The CCPO official welcomed the statement of Mayor Edgardo Labella, who said city residents can report to the city legal department any abuse committed by police officers.
Parilla said the CCPO and the Police Regional Office 7 have internal affairs offices that investigate erring officers.
The Commission on Human Rights 7 is also investigating the incident. (AYB)