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Sema noted that detaining minors together with other suspected criminals is a violation of Republic Act 9344 or the Anti-Juvenile Delinquency Act of 2006.
He said the minor told him he was abused by some of the inmates.
“The boy told me that life inside the detention cell was very difficult. He was abused by some of the inmates. When the inmates planned the escape, he saw an opportunity,” said Sema.
The surrender came after the mayor offered a P50,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the escapees.
He said the boy has provided enough information that could help in tracking down the escapees.
He added the minor was turned over by her mother who became afraid of what might happen to her son after learning that a manhunt has been launched for the escapees.
The City Social Welfare and Development Office has taken custody of the boy.
Under RA 9344, children who are in conflict with the law must be detained separately from adults, especially from hardened criminals.
Meanwhile Arab was relieved of his post effective today, according to Senior Insp. Eduardo Tagaoc, regional director of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology in Region 12.
Arab was replaced by Senior Jail Officer 3 Marlon Robles of BJMP-12.
Tagaoc said Arab received his relief order on Friday. (Malu Cadelina Manar/MindaNews)