Karapatan–National Capital Region (NCR) and Defend-NCR condemned a Manila Police District officer for its violence against Emman Durden, a resident of Pandacan, Manila, in the early hours of November 1. According to the groups, the incident was not an isolated case but part of a broader pattern of abuse, exploitation, and a culture of impunity among police officers in who act with superior power in Manila.

The victim said he merely passed by the officer when he was suddenly targeted, strangled and threatened with a gun.

Karapatan-NCR stated that the officer is a notorious abuser in the community. “As long as the state gives free rein to abusive police officers, the number of victims of police violence will continue to rise,” the group said.

Karapatan-NCR and Defend-NCR expressed their support for Durden and his family in their pursuit of justice. “The police officer involved and violence-enabling officials must be held accountable,” Karapatan-NCR said.

They will support Durden’s plan to file a case against the officer.

Recall that Manila Police District police also carried out violent and brutal arrests of youths and protesters in Mendiola and Recto during the September 21 protest against corruption. They arrested at least 277 individuals, including 91 minors, and detained them for a long period. Those arrested suffered torture and abuse inside the detention facility at the hands of the police.