Police file formal complaints against man for bribe attempt

CEBU, Philippines - The police in Lapu-Lapu City have filed formal complaints against a man who tried to bribe police investigators in exchange for the release of a friend who was arrested for allegedly selling drugs.

The complaint was filed against Ferdinand Avenido, 36, a resident of barangay Pusok, Lapu-Lapu City.

Avenido was arrested during an entrapment at the office of the police investigator inside the Lapu-Lapu Police Station 5.

Earlier, the police arrested one Christopher Booc and his 11-year-old brother for their alleged involvement in drug pushing in their place.

Booc allegedly employed his 11-year-old brother to sell illegal drugs to customers.

Police Chief Inspector Condrado Manatad, chief of Station 5, said after Booc’s arrest, a man, identified later as Avenido, called the police station offering money in exchange for Booc's release.

Manatad said they agreed to see Avenido about his offer, but unknown to Avenido, an entrapment was being set up.

When Avenido arrived at the police station, he asked for Manatad’s whereabouts. He was arrested inside Manatad’s office as soon as he handed over P10,000.

Avenido alleged he was asked by Booc’s older sister to help secure her brother’s release.

Both Avenido and Booc are still detained at the police detention cell in the Lapu-Lapu City police office. – (FREEMAN)