Probe underway on missing cop found dead in Lanao Sur river

MANILA – Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. ordered an investigation on the police officer who went missing for several days and was found dead in a river in Wao, Lanao del Sur.

In a statement on Tuesday, Acorda expressed his grief and assured the public that the PNP is committed to diligently pursuing this case and ensuring a thorough and fair investigation.

“The loss of one of our own is a profound tragedy. We will spare no effort in uncovering the truth behind this incident and holding accountable those responsible. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones of Patrolman Jeffrey Inclonar Dabuco during this difficult time. The entire PNP extends our condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the victim,” Acorda said.

On June 26, the Wao Municipal Police Station (MPS) received a report regarding the discovery of a decomposing male body at Marudagao River, Purok 2, in the town’s Barangay Panang.

Upon receiving the report, the Wao MPS promptly coordinated with the Kalilangan MPS, Bukidnon Provincial Police Office (BUKPPO), Police Regional Office 10 (PRO 10), and the 104th Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB) 10.

This collaboration was initiated due to a potential connection between the missing person case in Kalilangan, Bukidnon on June 23, and the discovered body.

Together with these units and the Kalilangan Rescue, the Wao MPS conducted an investigation, verified the report, and retrieved the body from Marudagao River.

Initial investigations suggest that the recovered body matches the description of the missing police officer, Pat. Jeffrey Inclonar Dabuco.

The cadaver was transferred to Kalilangan Provincial Hospital in Bukidnon, where the Kalilangan MPS coordinated with the Scene of the Crime Operations (SOCO) 10 personnel for further investigation and examinations.

The Wao MPS is maintaining close coordination with Kalilangan MPS to facilitate a thorough investigation.

On June 28, personnel from the Kalilangan MPS conducted an initial taking of affidavits from several persons of interest (POIs) in relation to the case.

The details of their involvement and the nature of their interest are currently under investigation.

“We urge anyone with relevant information to come forward and assist in the investigation. The cooperation of the community is crucial in ensuring justice for Police Officer Jeffrey Inclonar Dabuco and maintaining the peace and security of our society,” Acorda added. (PNA)