A policeman killed three police officers and a civilian in Barangay Tubtubon, Sibulan, Negros Oriental, Friday evening, the Police Regional Office Negros Island Region (PRO NIR) reported.
Killed were Sibulan Police Station chief Capt. Jose Edrohil Cimafranca, PSMS Tristan Chua, Pat. Rey Albert Temblor, and Sheila Mae Dinanao.
The police report said at 9:35 p.m Friday, Sheila Mae Dinanao was allegedly shot by PSSgt. Bonifacio Saycon, a member of the Sibulan Police Station, inside a resto bar.
He was then arrested by the three police officers, but while enroute to the police station on board onboard a Mitsubishi Lancer owned by Cimafranca, Saycon reportedly shot them.
The suspect later fled but voluntarily surrendered at around 10:40 p.m. at the Tanjay City Police Station.
He is currently under police custody and undergoing custodial investigation, inquest proceedings, and administrative processing.
PBGen. Arnold Thomas Ibay, PRO NIR director, has directed the activation of a special investigation team to handle the case and ensure that the probe is thorough, evidence-based, and free from undue influence.
“There will be no whitewash. This investigation will be conducted with full transparency, and anyone found liable will be held accountable under the law,” he said.
The PRO-NIR assures the public that it remains firmly committed to accountability, professionalism, and the rule of law, especially in incidents involving police personnel. The organization will not tolerate misconduct that undermines public trust, he added.
The Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office (NOrPPO) in a statement on its Facebook page said they mourn the tragic loss of the three police officers. “We honor their courage and dedication in the service of peace and public safety”, it said.
“We strongly condemn this senseless act of violence and stand united with the families, loved ones, and the entire PNP community in grief and solidarity. Their service will never be forgotten and will continue to inspire our commitment to duty,” the statement added.*
“NOrPPO remains steadfast in upholding the rule of law and ensuring accountability,” it also said.*