9 Navotas cops relieved over alleged torture of murder suspects

Nine Navotas policemen have been relieved from their posts pending investigation into allegations of torture against two murder suspects.

The officers, including the chief investigator, were initially accused of grave misconduct, serious irregularity in the performance of duty, and conduct unbecoming of a police officer.

The Philippine National Police Internal Affairs Service (IAS) and the National Police Commission (Napolcom) have launched separate parallel investigations into the matter.

The relieved officers are currently held at the Northern Police District's Personnel Holding and Accounting Unit.

The suspects' lawyer claims the alleged torture took place within the Navotas City Police Station's intelligence section.

One suspect reported being hit with a heavy object, causing him to lose consciousness, and his mugshot showed his head was covered with gauze.

The main suspect in the murder case is facing double murder charges.