Kidnapped drug suspects’ kin, witnesses get threats

CAMP VICENTE LIM, Laguna, Philippines — The family members of two drug suspects allegedly kidnapped in Calamba City and witnesses in the case have sought the help of authorities for fear of their lives.

Owen de Luna, National Police Commission-Calabarzon director, said the witnesses and family members of the kidnap victims have been receiving threats since criminal complaints were filed against four police officers and four other people in connection with the kidnapping.

“We immediately acted for the security and safety of the witnesses,” De Luna said.

He said one of the respondent police officers has been identified to be among those behind the threats.

Charges of kidnapping and robbery have been filed before the city prosecutor’s office against the policemen identified only as a Capt. Nat, S/Sgt. Mal, Cpl. Cas and a Patrolman Satur.

The four are also facing administrative cases for misconduct and conduct unbecoming of a police officer. They are under restrictive custody at the Regional Holding Center at Camp Vicente Lim.

The four policemen were reportedly among eight armed men who seized the two drug suspects in Barangay Parian.

The two drug suspects remain missing.