August 10, 2023 | 12:00am
MANILA, Philippines — A complaint for murder was filed on Tuesday against a policeman who fatally shot a colleague during a gun duel at the Taguig City police station, the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported yesterday.
The criminal complaint against Chief M/Sgt. Al-Rakib Aguel was filed before the Taguig prosecutor’s office at around 5:30 p.m., PNP public information officer Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan said.
Aguel is still recuperating from his wounds in a hospital following the incident wherein he shot dead Executive M/Sgt. Heriberto Saguiped during an argument.
Another policeman, Cpl. Alison Sindac, was wounded in the shooting.
Aguel and Saguiped reportedly shot each other during a heated argument. Sindac tried to pacify the two men but was shot in the process, according to initial investigation results.
Maranan, in a statement, said other courses of action against Aguel will be established once he is discharged.
“This will be done with a commitment to uphold due process and ensure accountability,” Maranan said.
He said the PNP is expediting the processing of benefits and claims of Saguiped’s bereaved family.
Adequate support and proper care are also being accorded to Sindac, who is recovering from his injuries.
The PNP assured the public of a thorough inquiry on the circumstances that led to the shooting.
The Southern Police District said “security adjustments and appropriate proactive interventions will be introduced to avoid this kind of incident in the future.” – Daphne Galvez
