Seizure of Zaldy cars valid, PNP says

MANILA, Philippines — The recent seizure of several luxury vehicles linked to former Ako Bicol party-list congressman Zaldy Co was legal and aboveboard, Philippine National Police (PNP) acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said yesterday.

Nartatez said the operation was carried out under valid and existing legal authority and all steps followed due process and complied with the law in line with the directive of President Marcos, as well as the guidance of Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, to ensure that law enforcement operations are conducted with full transparency, due process and respect for the rights of all parties involved.

“The operation was in compliance with an order from proper authorities. We want to assure the public that all actions of the Philippine National Police are legal and in accordance with the law,” Nartatez said in response to the issue raised by Co’s legal counsel.

On Jan. 8, combined forces from the PNP, Bureau of Customs and Land Transportation Office raided a condominium building in BGC, Taguig and seized several vehicles linked to the former lawmaker, who is implicated in the government’s investigation of alleged anomalies in flood control funds.

The confiscated cars included high-end models such as Rolls-Royce, Toyota Sequoia, Cadillac Escalade and Lexus. 

“From the start, we already committed to provide assistance in the investigation and enforcement of all legal orders in relation to the flood control issue. The involvement of your PNP in the operation was part of that commitment,” Nartatez said.

The PNP is also actively involved in the operations to account for all personalities that the courts ordered to be arrested in relation to the flood control cases. 

Nartatez reiterated that the PNP will continue to enforce the law impartially while protecting public trust and confidence.