Zamboanga governor using inmates as private army? 69 nabbed

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — At least 69 inmates allegedly used as the governor’s private army were arrested during a raid yesterday in Pagadian City in Zamboanga del Sur.

Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Regional chief Superintendent Armel Gongona said the raid was launched following intelligence reports that the inmates were being used as Zamboanga del Sur Gov. Antonio Cerilles’ private army and as utility workers in the Provincial Government Complex (PGC).

Cerilles has denied these accusations, saying in a briefing with local media that the inmates were relocated to the PGC to decongest the provincial jail.

He also claimed that their temporary transfer was supported by a Sangguniang Panlalawigan resolution.

Last year, Cerilles was among governors and mayors who were stripped by the National Police Commission of supervision and control over the police due to their alleged drug links or abuse of authority.

Yesterday, combined police forces recovered several firearms and ammunition from the inmates during the raid at around 8 a.m. in Barangay Dao, where the governor’s quarters at the PGC is located, according to Chief Superintendent Billy Beltran, director of Police Regional Office 9.

The CIDG charged the inmates for violation of Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation law, in relation to the Omnibus Election Code.

Six jail guards, who were not wearing their uniform while on duty, were charged with infidelity and evasion of service under the Revised Penal Code.

The inmates are facing charges for various crimes, including murder, rape and violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs law.

Police officers said they recovered four assault rifles, three .45 caliber pistols, a Tavor assault rifle, two 9mm pistols, a .357 revolver, two .38 revolvers, a carbine rifle, 58 assorted magazines and 429 rounds of assorted ammunition from the inmates.