6 cops in standoff with rob suspect sacked

MANILA, Philippines — Six police officers who figured in a standoff with a suspected robber in Sta. Mesa, Manila on Friday were relieved from their posts, the Philippine National Police (PNP) announced yesterday.

Col. Jean Fajardo, the PNP’s chief publicist, said the policemen were sacked from their posts while undergoing an investigation for possible violation of police operational procedures.

“Even the police officers’ precinct commander was told to explain their response,” she told reporters in a news briefing at Camp Crame.

Fajardo did not disclose the identities of the police officers.

A video of the incident, which went viral on social media platforms, showed police officers in a standoff with the alleged robber, 27-year-old Felix Babon.

Babon allegedly attempted to rob a jeepney driver plying the Bacood-Quiapo route.

The suspect was trapped inside the jeepney as the driver escaped and sought police assistance.

The policemen, armed with batons and shields, surrounded the jeepney.

A police officer hit Babon with a shield while others used their batons. However, the suspect managed to get out of the jeepney and attack a policeman, who shot him in the leg.

Based on the video, Fajardo said it appears the police officers did not follow certain police operational procedures.

She said the police officers could face administrative sanctions for less grave offenses and undergo reorientation and refresher courses.