Manila: PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has ordered an impartial investigation into the fatal shooting of a murder suspect by four police officers in Camarines Sur. Nartatez directed the immediate preventive suspension of the involved officers to ensure the integrity of the investigation.

According to Philippines News Agency, Nartatez stated, "We are reviewing all available evidence, including scene documentation, forensic findings, and testimonies of witnesses." He emphasized that the investigation will scrutinize whether the officers adhered to established protocols on the use of force. Nartatez added that any available body-worn camera footage would be included in the evaluation.

Initial investigations revealed that the officers were transporting a murder suspect and a rape suspect to Catanduanes from Pasig City on February 6 when they stopped along Rolando Andaya Highway for a restroom break and removed the suspects' handcuffs. During this break, the murder suspect allegedly attacked an officer, attempted to seize a rifle, but failed to fire it due to the absence of a round in the chamber. The suspect then fled toward a nearby forest, resulting in a chase and subsequent shootout.

An autopsy indicated that the suspect sustained gunshot wounds to the shoulder, chest, and head. Following the incident, the suspect's wife and two children filed a homicide complaint against the four responding officers.