Police to probe Mercader’s “hitman” claim

Police Regional Office (PRO)-7 Director Jose Mario Espino said the PNP will further investigate Lugo, Borbon Barangay Captain Jinnefer Mercader's revelation that he was once a “hitman” of some politicians in 2004 to 2006.

“Reports that a certain Jinnefer Mercader was arrested (and) allegedly telling stories na hitman by politician, so we are further investigating him and we are requiring him to submit proof kung sino yung mga sinabi nyang na hit nya. Kung totoo man to, those crimes reported will be solved and he will be charged for it,” said Espino.

He added that they will also look into the alleged politicians that Mercader had mentioned as the ones who hired his services.

Mercader was arrested by operatives of the Provincial Intelligence Branch (PIB) last Saturday morning through a search warrant.

Seized from him were an M16 rifle, a .38 pistol and suspected shabu.

During the interrogation with the operatives and members of the media, Mercader admitted that he was once used by some government officials as a hitman. He also said that he only killed those considered as bad guys in the society, like snatcher and robbers.

Meanwhile, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR)-7 also said it will coordinate with PIB for a separate investigation regarding the allegation of Mercader.

CHR Director Atty. Arvin Ordon said their concern is on the politicians who were involved in Mercader's allegations.

“Ang among concern ani kay politician, he is representing the state, a government employee (who) is supposed to protect and that naa siya'y mandato to respect and protect the right to life being a fundamental to human rights. Mao nay concern sa CHR adtong issue sa involvement of government personality,” said Ordon.

He added that Mercader's revelation is somehow a good opportunity for the police to conduct a thorough investigation that will lead to solve those pending cases of extrajudicial killing from the past.

Ordon also encourage those people who witnessed or were victimized by extra judicial killing to approach their office, so that they can help them.

To those possible witnesses of unresolved cases, Ordon said they have nothing to worry because their office will provide a witness protection program.