7 CADETS, 2 POLICE OFFICERS CHARGED OVER HAZING AT PNPA

SEVEN  cadets of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) and two of their tactical officers are facing criminal charges over the alleged hazing of 22 other students inside the Academy.

The PNP Criminal Investigation and Detection Group on Monday filed before the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor in Imus, Cavite a complaint for violation of Republic Act 11053 or the Anti-Hazing Act of 2018  against five third-class cadets and two-second class cadets.

Also included in the charge were the Tactical Officer of the Day during the incident and a Tactical Police Non-Commissioned Officer.

The case stemmed from the reported maltreatment of 22 fourth-class cadets at the Academy’s campus in Silang, Cavite on Good Friday, April 3.

An investigation showed the 22 fourth class cadets were hospitalized due to severe burns and injuries caused by a mixture of muriatic acid and liquid sosa, a drain cleaner rubbed on their bodies, including their sex organs.

Initial findings showed that the hazing stemmed from an internal issue involving a cadet who intended to resign, with underclassmen allegedly punished after being blamed for the situation.

Meanwhile, new PNPA director Brig. Gen. Redrico A. Maranan said an investigation is also underway into another reported “hazing” incident in the facility involving two more cadets who claimed to have been hit  on their feet with sticks by their two upperclassmen.

The incident was discovered last April 19 following the conduct of a regular body check of the cadets.

Maranan said the two accused upperclassmen are now in the custody of the  Silang Municipal Police Station.