CIDG apologizes to columnist over wrongful arrest

MANILA, Philippines — The police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) has apologized to opinion writer Fedelina Margarita Valle, who is based in Davao City, over her wrongful arrest on Sunday. 

“I want to extend my apologies for the... inconvenience that you experienced... at the Laguindingan Airport,” Col. Tom Tuzon, who heads the CIDG office in Zamboanga peninsula, said in a statement issued on Monday night.

Police officers accosted Valle, whom they mistook as communist rebel Elsa Renton with standing warrants of arrest for multiple murder, frustrated murder, damage to government property and arson.

Valle was freed after several hours.

Tuzon said they should have immediately released Valle when the columnist showed her identification card.

“We do realize that we should have heeded your call regarding your identity from the start and have released you at the airport,” he said.

“We should have conducted validation prior to the arrest,” he added.

Tuzon also appealed for understanding from Valle.

He said an investigation is ongoing to identify lapses committed by concerned police officers.

“Any misconduct related to your arrest will be dealt with accordingly,” Tuzon said.