Acting Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has ordered a comprehensive review of protocols for officers under restrictive custody following a stabbing at the force’s headquarters Tuesday.
The incident occurred inside the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) office at Camp Crame.
According to initial findings, two CIDG personnel were being held in restrictive custody in connection with the alleged theft of cash evidence seized during a 2024 raid on a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator in Bataan.
While the officers were preparing to attend a preliminary investigation at the Department of Justice, one officer allegedly stabbed the other with a kitchen knife.
“I have already directed all units and offices to conduct a review of the existing protocol to prevent the repeat of this unfortunate incident,” Nartatez said.
The injured officer is currently under observation at the PNP General Hospital. The suspect is slated for medical and psychological assessments.
Police officials said the review will specifically examine how custodians monitor behavioral changes in detained personnel.
Reports indicated the suspect had shown signs of behavioral distress prior to the attack.
Nartatez also directed the probe to evaluate the psychological impact of prolonged restrictive custody on officers facing serious administrative or criminal charges.
All unit commanders have been instructed to re-evaluate their respective supervision procedures to ensure the safety of both personnel and custodians.