Davao City – PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., during his scheduled visit on Monday, 9 February, confirmed the death of a senior police officer who was found dead inside the compound of the Police Regional Office XI (PRO XI).

The deceased officer was identified as Police Lieutenant Colonel Deozar Almasa, a former police chief of Bansalan and Digos. He was considered a seasoned officer with years of service in the region and was assigned to the R4 Unit under PRO XI.

Initial reports said that Lt. Col. Almasa was discovered lifeless inside his quarters and office at Camp Sgt. Quintin M. Merecido in Barangay Buhangin, Davao City. According to the authorities, the incident occurred early in the morning, shortly before the arrival of the PNP Chief for his official visit to the regional headquarters.

Nartatez Jr., in his speech, added that he did order a thorough investigation on the matter and to take it as a serious matter as the leadership of the national police is closely monitoring the investigation.

The Police Regional Office XI (PRO XI), in a statement, said that the entire community is mourning the loss. They urged the public to refrain from speculation while authorities continue to work to determine the circumstances surrounding the death.

“The incident is currently being looked into by the proper authorities to establish the circumstances surrounding the death. Further information will be released once details are officially verified,” the PRO XI said in a statement.