PNP launches manhunt for judge’s killers

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. on Friday ordered an intensified manhunt for the gunmen who killed a regional trial court judge in Zamboanga City.

Nartatez condemned the killing of Basilan Regional Trial Court Presiding Judge Joseph Wee Sit, who was shot dead along Tumaga-Putik Road in Barangay Tumaga, Zamboanga City, on Thursday.

“This is in line with the directive of President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ R. Marcos Jr., through the guidance of Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla, to uphold the rule of law, maintain peace and order, and ensure the safety of public servants,” the PNP said.

“An attack on any member of the judiciary is an assault on the very institution that upholds justice and the rule of law. We will leave no stone unturned in pursuing those responsible. We will exhaust all available resources to ensure their arrest and hold them accountable for this senseless crime,” Nartatez said.

Initial police investigation showed that two unidentified suspects aboard a white motorcycle approached Sit’s vehicle and fired several shots before escaping toward Tumaga Bypass Road.

Following the attack, police activated a Special Investigation Task Group to lead a swift, thorough and impartial investigation. Nartatez directed concerned police units to intensify operations to track down the suspects and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

The PNP chief also underscored the importance of protecting the judiciary as an independent branch of government whose work is essential to upholding citizens’ rights and ensuring the fair administration of justice.

“We acknowledge the important role of the judiciary as an independent branch of government tasked with safeguarding the country’s fundamental rights and promoting justice,” Nartatez said.

He added that the PNP would coordinate with the judiciary to review and strengthen security arrangements for judges and court personnel, stressing that members of the courts must be able to perform their duties without fear or intimidation.

“Rest assured that we will protect the safety and security of the members of the court to enable them to promulgate decisions without any fear,” Nartatez said.