The Philippine National Police (PNP) said on Wednesday it has developed “good leads” on the identities of some individuals involved in violent incidents during the first Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) parliamentary elections.
In an interview with reporters, PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the police are conducting case build-up and pursuing leads to identify those responsible for the shootings, explosions and other security incidents reported during the Sept. 14 polls.
“There are still a handful of individuals in the region who think the old ways still work. We proved them wrong,” Nartatez said.
“Our investigation will be fair and we’ll do it without fear and to identify those who are truly responsible,” he added.
The PNP recorded 14 violent incidents during the elections, resulting in three civilian fatalities and 23 injuries, including three police personnel.
The incidents included shootings and explosions in Cotabato City, as well as incidents in Basilan and Maguindanao del Sur. Police also recovered an improvised explosive device (IED) in Basilan.
The PNP said it would continue investigating the incidents and maintain security in BARMM as authorities proceed with post-election activities and the proclamation of winning candidates.
Reports from RH Edniel Parrosa
