PNP orders probe into death of ex-Ozamiz councilor Parojinog inside cell

September 4, 2020

The chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) on Friday ordered an investigation on the death of former Ozamiz City councilor Ricardo “Ardot” Parojinog inside a detention cell.

 PNP spokesperson  Brig. General Bernard Banac said General Camilo Cascolan directed regional police director Brig. General Rolando Anduyan to immediately place the Ozamiz police chief and all night shift duty personnel under restrictive custody to be available for investigation after Parojinog was found dead inside their cell around 6am of Friday.

“He was supposed to attend hearing in Ozamis City Court today. His travel was covered by court order,” Banac said.

Banac said Cascolan also ordered the PNP Custodial Center security team under Lt. Colonel Jiger Noceda to be placed under investigation to determine their liabilities.

“Crime lab SOCO ( scene of the crime operatives) and CIDU (Criminal Investigation and Detection Unit) Misamis Occidental team are now conducting investigation,” Banac said.

In 2017, Parojinog  went to Taiwan to escape the police raid which resulted to the death of his brother, former mayor Reynaldo Parojinog Sr, and 14 others.

Their family is tagged as involved to the illegal drug trade.

Last 2018, Parojinog was arrested in Taiwan for illegal entry and due to Interpol's Red Notice.  

He is facing charges for violating the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act and for illegally possessing explosives. Ella Dionisio/DMS