Recently, the Internal Affairs Service Department of the Philippine National Police (IAS) recommended the dismissal of a brigadier general-level senior officer, who is alleged to have committed serious violations during a raid on a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) in Parañaque City.
The Inspector General of the Philippine National Police, Brigido J. Dulay, revealed that the case originated from a raid conducted in September 2023. At that time, the Southern Police District executed a search warrant on an apartment in Parañaque City for illegal possession of firearms.
However, the investigation found that there were numerous irregularities in the operation.
Dulay stated: "The investigation by the Internal Affairs Department showed that a police general was recommended for dismissal due to gross negligence and command responsibility issues.
This recommendation has been submitted to the office of the Chief of the National Police for processing, to emphasize our commitment to internal accountability within our ranks."
According to reports, 10 police officers involved were dismissed from their duties for reasons including gross negligence, dereliction of duty, and misconduct. Additionally, 7 were demoted, and 17 were temporarily suspended. The senior officer accused, being a presidential appointee, requires a special procedure for investigation.
In the operation, the police arrested 10 Chinese nationals and one Filipino, and rescued several suspected victims, while seizing 4.6 million pesos in cash. However, the arrested individuals later complained that they were illegally detained and accused the police of confiscating personal property not listed in the search warrant.
Further investigations revealed serious issues: the officers involved failed to include about 27 million pesos in cash and other valuable items found during the search in the official evidence list, even attempting to destroy CCTV footage and turn off body cameras to cover up misconduct during the operation.
Dulay strongly condemned this incident: "This case is a wake-up call for all police commanders. If their subordinates engage in illegal activities, they will also be held accountable."
The Philippine National Police emphasized that handling this case is an important step in combating internal corruption and will continue to take measures to ensure the integrity and transparency of the police service.
