[ad_1]
MANILA: Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte acquitted his newly appointed police chief of any rule violations on Saturday (Nov. 14) as he celebrated his birthday in May during one of the world’s strictest coronavirus lockdowns.
In a national address, Duterte defended Police Chief Debold Sinas, promoted Monday to commander of the national police from the Manila Police Chief, and highlighted the appointee’s accomplishments despite the uproar on social media by him. perceived special treatment.
Sinas had led anti-drug operations in which thousands of people died.
“If he has (committed) any offense, he is already pardoned. I do not see any crime with moral implications and malice,” Duterte said, adding that Sinas was not at fault for receiving a surprise party.
Sinas has been investigated by the Justice Ministry for celebrating his birthday with fellow officers in May despite coronavirus restrictions and at a time when police were arresting thousands of people for quarantine violations. He has apologized for “causing public anxiety.”
It was not immediately clear if Duterte’s comments meant those investigations were no longer active. Contacted for comment by Reuters, Justice Minister Menardo Guevarra said in a text message: “I didn’t hear exactly what the president said. I need to know the context.”
Sinas ‘appointment to lead the 200,000-strong Philippine police force met with activists’ concern over uncontrolled human rights abuses. The human rights group says police had summarily executed the suspects, but police say those suspects had violently resisted arrest.
CHECK THIS: Our comprehensive coverage of the coronavirus outbreak and its developments
Download our app or subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest updates on the coronavirus outbreak: https://cna.asia/telegram
