Davao City – Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte condemned the removal of 35 Davao police personnel from their duties due to alleged drug-related killings.
According to Mayor Duterte, he strongly opposes any effort to destroy the hard-earned trust between law enforcement and their community.
Among the relieved personnel is Davao City Police chief P/Colonel Richard Bad-ang who was also placed under administrative suspension.
According to the Police Regional Office-Davao, Bad-ang was suspended so as not to influence the investigation.
READ: https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=1004833747681260&set=pcb.1004834131014555
From March 23 to 26, seven drug suspects were killed in separate buy-bust operations, four days after Duterte declared a war on illegal drugs in Davao.
“The recent actions taken against these relieved personnel contradict the spirit of cooperation and mutual trust crucial for effective governance and law enforcement.” according to Duterte’s official statement on his Facebook page.
“I oppose any efforts to undermine the hard-earned trust between our community and law enforcement. These recent developments serve as a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked authority. I call for transparency and accountability in handling this matter and for the immediate reinstatement of the unfairly relieved officers.” he added.