The 2016 DIDM Investigative Directive No. 08-16 emphasizes the importance of adhering to established policies and guidelines for investigating bombing and explosive-related incidents in the Philippines. It acknowledges previous failures in crime scene investigations, which have resulted in the inability to identify perpetrators and progress in cases. The directive reiterates the critical roles of the Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) Team and other first responders in collecting evidence, particularly in handling improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Non-compliance with these procedures is noted to hinder both case outcomes and counter-terrorism efforts, with violations to be reported for further action. The directive also encourages dissemination and strict adherence to these policies.
2016
DIDM INVESTIGATIVE DIRECTIVE NO. 08-16
REITERATION OF POLICIES AND GUIDELINES ON THE INVESTIGATION OF BOMBING AND EXPLOSIVE-RELATED INCIDENTS
1. References:
a. Standard Operation Procedures Number ODIDM 2011-008 dated April 7, 2011 entitled: "Conduct of Crime Scene Investigation"; and
b. Criminal Investigation Manual (Revised) 2011
2. The protocol on the conduct of crime scene investigation of explosive-related incidents has not been observed or violations were committed in the conduct thereof. Because of this, perpetrators were almost never identified and cases filed do not progress because of lacking physical evidence. Perpetrators never get behind bars and run free to repeat the same offense.
3. To properly respond to the issue, this Directorate reiterates the existing policies on the investigation of bombings and explosive-related incidents. As per SOP 2011-008, the conduct of Crime Scene Investigation indicates that the SOCO Team plays a vital role in investigation. Their actions are integral to the outcome of the case. Said policy defines and delineates the functions and responsibilities of First Responders, the Investigator-on-Case and SOCO Team in the conduct of all crime scene investigations.
4. The Criminal Investigation Manual, on the other hand, specifically indicates the following:
5.5.6 b. Recovery/Discovery/Seizure of IED and Other Explosive Materials
1. Improvised Explosive Device
a) After hazard has been eliminated by the Bomb Squad/EOD personnel, request SOCO to process the device for latent prints, collect explosive residue and fingerprints of bomb technicians/EOD and other persons who access the device for elimination.
2. Procedures on the Discovery of Unassembled Complete IED Components
a) Request SOCO assistance for processing of trace evidence.
4. Violation of this policy shall not only be detrimental to the case but shall likewise affect the counter-terrorism efforts of the PNP. Non-compliance shall be reported to RIDMD, which shall report the same to PCEID, DIDM.
5. Digital copies of aforesaid policy and Manual can be downloaded at www.didm.pnp.gov.ph.
6. For widest dissemination and strict compliance. CAacTH
(SGD.) BENJAMIN B. MAGALONG
Police Director