PRO-NIR forms task force to probe rebel-linked killings

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY – Police Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay, director of Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR), has ordered the creation of a task force to investigate killings allegedly carried out by the New People’s Army (NPA) in the region.

The task force will include the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and the intelligence units of the provincial police offices in Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor.

“This is a concerted effort for us to be able to probe it properly and identify the suspects,” Ibay said.

The NPA, in separate press statements, claimed responsibility for a series of killings across Negros Occidental, tagging the victims as “military assets.”

These include “Dakol” in Barangay Consing, E.B. Magalona on March 11; a farmer in Barangay General Luna, Toboso on April 15; “Jury” in Barangay Tabun-ac, Toboso on May 14; “Tolendoy” in Calatrava on June 18; “Palay” and “Putot” in Barangay San Isidro, Toboso on June 22; “Isagani” in Barangay Bandila, Toboso on June 26; and “Enrique” in Barangay General Luna, Toboso on July 1.

Ibay said there have been developments in the cases, though solving them will take time.

“It doesn’t happen overnight, but rest assured we investigate them properly, and we’re not leaving any stones unturned,” he said.

He confirmed that some cases have been filed, but declined to disclose details to avoid compromising the investigation.

A progress report will be issued once formal complaints are filed.

“We assure to give justice. Ibibigay po natin ang hustisya para sa mga pamilya ng mga namatay,” Ibay said, adding that they will utilize all available resources to resolve the cases.

He said the police are closely coordinating with the Commission on Human Rights (CHR), which is conducting a parallel investigation.

Meanwhile, Ibay addressed recent cases involving discovered bodies in Bacolod and Talisay City, Negros Occidental.

He said investigators are working to determine whether the incidents are connected.

Last week, the Talisay City Police Station identified two of the three bodies earlier found.

Authorities are considering motives such as illegal drugs or personal grudges.

The bodies of “Dodoy” from Barangay Estefania, Bacolod, and “Kokoy” from San Enrique, Negros Occidental were discovered separately in Barangay Concepcion on Aug. 11.

Two days later, “Jon” from Barangay Bata, Bacolod, was found lifeless in nearby Barangay Mandalagan.

Police suspect the case may be drug-related due to the victim’s alleged involvement in illegal drug activities.

Ibay said authorities are not labeling any suspects in these cases as vigilante groups.

He confirmed that persons of interest have been identified but could not share further details while the investigation is ongoing.

He also said police are intensifying operations against loose firearms through the implementation of search warrants.

Ibay added that police units remain strategically deployed and ready to respond 24/7.