The victim after being shot and left by responding policemen.
SIX police officers involved in the killing of 17-year-old Jerhode ‘Jemboy’ Baltazar have been ordered arrested by the Navotas City Regional Trial Court.
The order, handed down by Presiding Judge Pedro Dabu Jr. and dated October 3, 2023, comes after a thorough examination of the case, which led to the determination of probable cause for the charges of murder against the following officers:
Master Sergeant Roberto Balais Jr., Staff Sergeants Antonio Bugayong Jr. and Gerry Maliban, Nikko Pines Esquilon, Corporal Edmard Jade Blanco, and Patrolman Benedict Mangada.
The court did not recommend bail for their temporary release, underscoring the gravity of the charges they face.
This development marks a significant step forward in the pursuit of justice for Baltazar and his grieving family.
The tragic incident occurred on August 2 when the police mistakenly identified Baltazar as Reynaldo Bolivar, a suspect they were pursuing.
Police officers saw Baltazar and a friend on a boat preparing to go fishing when the law enforcers allegedly fired at both of them.
According to reports, the police officers allegedly conspired to kill Baltazar, resulting in gunshot wounds to the back of his head and the dorsal portion of his hand, even as he was in the act of jumping and underwater.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla revealed that a thorough evaluation was conducted by the DOJ to ensure that the charges filed are appropriate to the crime.
Notably, the initial proposal of homicide charges was not accepted.
