The Philippine National Police – Internal Affairs Service (PNP-IAS) has launched an investigation into two police officers involved in shooting incidents that killed two.

“This shocking act of violence is a betrayal of the trust placed in our police force. The PNP cannot and will not tolerate such reprehensible behavior within its ranks. The IAS is determined to uncover the truth, hold the perpetrator accountable, and restore public confidence in our institution. Justice will be served,” IAS Inspector General Brigido Dulay said in a statement yesterday.

Corporal Alfred Sabas, who was assigned to Police Station 7 of the General Santos City Police Office, shot dead security guard Reynaldo Bigno, Jr. after a heated argument inside a Mindanao Star bus at around 2:30 a.m. on December 28 in Barangay Batasan, Makilala, North Cotabato.

At approximately 4:15 a.m., Sabas, reportedly intoxicated, also injured Corporal Kent Maurith Pamaos and Patrolman Russel Love Tapia of the 11th Regional Mobile Force Battalion as the bus reached the boundary of North Cotabato and Davao del Sur provinces.

The two officers attempted to disarm Sabas, but the latter opened fire and fled.

He was later apprehended in Barangay Kinuskusan, Magsaysay, Davao del Sur.

Meanwhile, Corporal Armin Alanza, of the 604th Regional Mobile Force Battalion, shot to death 21-year-old Joman Fuentes and wounded his 52-year-old father, Jomarie, after a brawl in Pulupandan, Negros Occidental on Christmas Day.

Investigators have questioned Alanza, who is currently confined at The Doctors Hospital in Bacolod City.

“We will not tolerate any abuse of authority or violations of duty, especially by those sworn to protect and serve the public. This incident is a solemn reminder of the importance of accountability and integrity within our ranks,” Dulay said. (PNA)