PNP-IAS wants 8 cops in Jemboy killing sacked

The Philippine National Police on Friday said its Internal Affairs Service had recommended the dismissal of eight police officers tagged in the "unjust killing" of 17-year-old Jerhode "Jemboy" Baltazar in Navotas City last month.

In a television interview, PNP-IAS Inspector General Alfegar Triambulo said they have submitted to the National Capital Region Police Office the recommendation for dismissal from the service of Executive Master Sgt. Roberto Balais Jr.; Staff Sergeants Antonio Bugayong Jr., Gerry Maliban and Nikko Pines Esquillon; Cpl. Edmard Jake Blanco; and Pat. Benedict Mangada.

Triambulo said team leaders, Captains Mark Joseph Carpio and Luisito Dela Cruz, were also included in the recommendation for dismissal for serious and grave neglect of duty.

Carpio and Luisito "did not personally supervise" their team during the police operation, which led to the case of mistaken identity.

"The IAS recommendation for those involved in the death of the minor Jemboy is dismissal from the service. These six admitted that they fired their guns that, according to the witness, were directly aimed at Jemboy, so this was the reason the minor died — because he was hit by a bullet," Triambulo said.

The police officers will have their benefits forfeited upon dismissal.

Also, their eligibility would be revoked, and perpetually disqualified from holding any other government posts.