The Quezon City local government is investigating the alleged maltreatment of several enforcers to a fish vendor in Barangay South Triangle in the said city, Monday afternoon.
In a video caught by a concerned citizen, it could be seen that five to six people wearing Task Force Disiplina uniform of QC government were hitting and punching the fish vendor, around 1 pm, Monday, April 27.
The uploader of the video said the man has a mental disorder. The victim was heard screaming in pain from the beating. According to the video’s uploader on social media, an acquaintance allegedly handed him the video.
Many residents felt concerned with what they saw and called the attention of the enforcers, but the men argued with them. According to residents, this is an abuse of power.
According to the uploader, he was traumatized by the incident, and he felt sorry for the victim.
Before the lockdown, the man was given a spot in the area to sell fish and assist at the water refilling station in the area, the concerned citizen said.
In a statement, the Quezon City government said they were condemning the incident.
“The City Government shall never condone any acts of violence or violation of human rights, regardless of reason or justification, especially when committed by an official or employee of the city government or any of the city’s barangays,” it said in a statement.
They also said they would file cases against the enforcers if it is proved that they have violated the law.
The local government also reminded the officials to keep their relationship with their constituents in order during the enhanced community quarantine.
“All its personnel and agents are strongly reminded to always conduct themselves with proper decorum and restraint, and to observe compassion and tolerance, especially in these difficult times,” it said.
The incident happened almost a week after a police officer shot and killed a former soldier with post-traumatic stress disorder also in Quezon City.
On Monday, an altercation broke out between a foreigner and police in an exclusive village in Makati after a foreigner allegedly violated the quarantine protocol.