Rodriguez cop chief relieved over teen’s slay

MANILA, Philippines — The police chief of Rodriguez, Rizal has been relieved from his post in connection with the death of a 15-year-old in a shooting incident on Aug. 24.

Lt. Col. Ruben Piquero was replaced under the doctrine of command responsibility. He was replaced by Lt. Col. Arnulfo Selencio.

Brig. Gen. Carlito Gaces, Calabarzon police director, had earlier ordered the relief and filing of criminal and administrative complaints against Cpl. Arnulfo Sabillo over the killing of John Francis Ompad in Barangay San Isidro.

Homicide and frustrated homicide charges were filed against Sabillo and his civilian companion Jeffrey Baguio before the Rizal provincial prosecutor’s office on Aug. 22.

Initial investigation showed the incident occurred after Sabillo, who was in civilian clothes, and Baguio tried to pull over Ompad’s brother John Ace, who was on a motorcycle.

John Ace said he did not stop because he thought the two were robbers.

He said Sabillo and Baguio followed him until he reached home.

John Ace told probers he threw his helmet to drive the two away. Enraged, Sabillo drew his gun but missed.

The bullet instead hit Ompad, who had emerged from their house when he heard the commotion.

Meanwhile, Gaces also ordered the relief of Lt. Col. Rolly Liegen, team leader of the San Pedro police station drug enforcement unit, and four of his men.

The five were accused of the illegal arrest of a drug suspect on May 18.