Bulacan: The Police Regional Office-Central Luzon (PRO-3) has relieved police officers from their posts following an incident of mistaken identity during a police operation in Baliwag City, Bulacan.
According to Philippines News Agency, PRO-3 chief Brig. Gen. Jess Mendez announced that the incident took place on Thursday during a follow-up operation linked to an ongoing investigation. The officers, upon realizing their error, immediately ceased their engagement and vacated the area.
Brig. Gen. Mendez emphasized the importance of sound judgment and adherence to operational procedures in police operations, which are often conducted under dynamic and time-sensitive conditions. He ordered a thorough review of the incident to ensure that all operational guidelines and protocols were followed, and to identify any procedural lapses that might require administrative or corrective action. Charges have already been filed against the involved officers.
The officers involved voluntarily surrendered to their chief of police and were relieved from their duties. Their firearms were secured as part of standard procedures while the investigation continues. Mendez acknowledged the occasional occurrence of mistaken identity in police operations but reiterated the necessity for professionalism, accountability, and due process.
"We assure the public that Police Regional Office 3 remains committed to transparency, professionalism, and accountability as we continue to uphold the rule of law and safeguard the rights of every individual," Mendez stated.
Additionally, PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. mentioned in a chance interview that the police chief of San Rafael town was also relieved due to command responsibility. He criticized the lack of adherence to standard operating procedures during the arrest, emphasizing the need for thorough intelligence work and accurate target identification in operations. The officers are now assigned to a regional holding unit and are facing administrative and criminal charges, along with the concerned head of office or supervising officer.
