Hontiveros calls for Jolo PNP relief amid probe

Senator Risa Hontiveros called for the relief of the entire Philippine National Police (PNP) force in Jolo, Sulu, following a recent shooting incident and twin bombings.

She expressed concerns that relieving the Jolo police force would allow for an unhindered investigation and remove suspicions of terrorist infiltration.

In the shooting incident, four military men were pursuing two suicide bombers when they were allegedly intercepted and killed by the police.

The PNP chief, Police General Archie Francisco Gamboa, however, expressed confidence in his men in Jolo, stating that they maintain full confidence unless there is sufficient evidence of criminal involvement or administrative lapses.

Hontiveros raised the possibility of military intelligence falling into enemy hands, a concern amplified by the recent bombing.

The suspects in the recent suicide bombing attacks have been identified as Nanah, believed to be the wife of Norman Lasuca, and Inda Nhay, allegedly the wife of Abu Sayyaf liaison to ISIS, Abu Talha.