Recently, the Philippine police arrested four active-duty soldiers who were allegedly involved in tailing a Chinese businessman in the San Simon area of Pangasinan province for five consecutive days, leading to a shootout with law enforcement officers. This incident has raised significant concerns about military overreach and disciplinary issues.
Brigadier General Jean Fajardo, spokesperson for the Philippine National Police (PNP), confirmed on Wednesday that the four soldiers were members of the Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (ISAFP). One of them was shot in the neck during the exchange of fire and was urgently hospitalized, while the other three were detained on the spot.
The incident occurred on April 9th. The police launched an investigation after receiving an anonymous tip from a man who reported being repeatedly followed by a suspicious Toyota Innova, feeling his personal safety was threatened.
The police later found the vehicle at a gas station and attempted to stop it. Unexpectedly, a man inside the vehicle suddenly drew a gun, forcing the police to shoot at the vehicle's tires. The suspects tried to escape but were eventually intercepted on Jicson Road in Pangasinan province, leading to a brief exchange of gunfire, resulting in one soldier being shot.
Preliminary investigations revealed that these four active-duty soldiers had been secretly following the Chinese man for five days. The victim told the police that the men not only engaged in "unreasonable harassment" but also posed a "serious threat," making him feel his life was in danger.
The police noted that the involved personnel might have violated the Republic Act No. 10591 (Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act) and the nationwide gun ban currently in effect due to elections.
"We are thoroughly investigating their motives, especially to confirm whether these personnel were officially authorized or involved in illegal intelligence activities," said Fajardo. He added that the police are now coordinating with the military to verify the identities and mission backgrounds of these four soldiers.
As of now, the names of the involved personnel have not been disclosed. This case has also sparked public debate over military discipline and the boundaries of responsibilities, with some citizens questioning whether there is an abuse of power by military personnel involved in unauthorized secret operations.
The police stated that they would continue to investigate this case and decide whether to formally charge the four individuals based on the investigation results. Meanwhile, the safety of the victimized Chinese businessman has also received high priority from the police, who will provide further protective measures.
