Aurora drowning probe ends, 11 may face charges

National

CRIMINAL complaints may soon be filed against up to 11 individuals in connection with the drowning of Ateneo de Manila University basketball players Rene Clert Baterbonia and Divine Adili

The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) is now preparing to submit its investigation report and recommendation to the Department of Justice (DOJ) after concluding its probe into the June 8 incident in Dipaculao, Aurora, a report by Philstar said.

Philippine National Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said most of those expected to face complaints are members of the team’s coaching and support staff, although authorities have yet to release their identities.

“We can already have our concrete recommendations and records of investigation being referred to the DOJ,” Nartatez said.

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said investigators are looking into possible violations of Republic Act No. 11053, or the Anti-Hazing Act of 2018, along with homicide, based on the evidence gathered during the investigation.

The inquiry involved interviews with nearly 100 individuals and the review of about 1,200 pages of sworn statements and other documentary evidence.

Apart from the government’s investigation, Baterbonia’s family is considering filing a civil case to seek damages regardless of the outcome of the government’s criminal investigation, according to the family’s legal counsel.(Rythrishia Almacin Llagas, UP Cebu COMM Intern)