70 Bangsamoro cops relieved over hazing

Seventy police officers from the Police Regional Office–Bangsamoro Autonomous Region Mobile Force Battalion 14B were relieved from their posts for allegedly subjecting new recruits to violent hazing rites in Basilan.

Philippine National Police spokesperson P/Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño said, “All members of Regional Mobile Force Battalion 14B were removed and replaced.”

“More than 70 personnel were administratively relieved,” Tuaño said, adding that 12 police noncommissioned officers were positively identified by complainants as among those involved in the alleged hazing.

The complaint was initially filed by one recruit, followed by statements from 18 others. Eventually, 110 more recruits submitted sworn accounts, according to the PNP.

The alleged hazing occurred on 5 February at the battalion’s headquarters in Barangay Ubit, Lamitan City, Basilan, during the reception rites for 129 new police officers.

“The injuries were physical,” Tuaño said. “There were hematomas, pain, punches, slaps and other forms of assault.” All of the alleged victims were made to undergo medical evaluation.

The officers may face charges for violating Republic Act 11053, the Anti-Hazing Act.

The National Police Commission in the Bangsamoro region said it has launched a separate investigation.