Help us by reporting abuses, DOJ urges victims

MANILA – Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Menardo Guevarra on Monday assured the government’s commitment to the fair implementation of the law in alleged unwarranted deaths and illegal acts by rogue lawmen during anti-illegal drug operations.

At the same time, he reiterated calls to victims’ families to divulge details of deaths and abuses.

“I am referring to the families of persons allegedly killed by law enforcement agents in illegal drug operations. I encourage the victims’ families to go directly to the DOJ and file their complaints directly with us,” Guevarra told reporters via text message.

Guevarra said those in need of legal assistance will be referred to the Public Attorney’s Office while security will be provided by the Witness Protection Program.

“The DOJ will take it from there,” Guevarra added.

Of the initial 52 reviewed cases of drug war killings involving about 150 police officers, the DOJ found out 32 failed to follow protocols like conducting paraffin tests or had missing documents such as operation reports and ballistic examination results.

The majority of the cops involved were suspended from 31 days to six months, demoted, or dismissed.

Guevarra also brushed aside critics who say the government disregards the rights of both victims and accused.

Instead, he urged everyone to work with the government and uphold the rule of law.

“The DOJ has a job to do, and we shall not be distracted by comments,” Guevarra said. “I request these people to lend us a helping hand so that we can bring about justice in our land faster. That is our common aspiration.”