Palace on Killing of Teenager in Drug Raid, 'One Death Too Many'

The victim identified as Kian Loyd Delos Santos died after he was shot during a police operation in Barangay (village) 160 in Caloocan City, Philippines on Wednesday night.

Image credit tnp.ph

Malacanang clarified on Saturday that the violent death of any Filipino, especially that of grade 11 student killed in Caloocan City, was "One Death Too Many."

"Presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella would like to make it clear that the violent death of any Filipino is one death too many, especially that of Kian Loyd Delos Santos," China Jocson, assistant to the presidential spokesperson, said over the Radyo Pilipinas.

Kian Loyd Delos Santos, a 17 years-old student, was killed for allegedly fighting back against the police during anti-drug operations in Libis Baisa, Barangay 160, Caloocan City, Philippines.

However, a CCTV footage showed Delos Santos being manhandled by plainclothes police officers shortly before he was found dead.

His death sparked outrage from both critics and allies of President Rodrigo Duterte.

Image credit pcoo.gov.ph

The Palace assured the public that those involved in the killing of Kian would be properly investigated.

"Having said this, the president, who continues to vigorously pursue the dismantling of drugs apparatus, ensures that any enforcers will be properly investigated," Jocson said. 

The National Capital Region Police Office, has expressed condolences to the Delos Santos family and has ordered the relief and investigation of all involved and assured the public that mistakes and illegal acts would not be tolerated, Jocson noted.