Fake traffic officer arrested in Talisay

CEBU, Philippines - Police arrested yesterday dawn a former member of the Philippine Constabulary (PC) who was allegedly arresting motorists for traffic violations at the Cebu South Coastal Road in Barangay Cansojong, Talisay City.

Antonio Olvenario, 59, married and a resident of Barangay Poblacion, Pardo, Cebu City, is now detained at the Talisay City Police Station pending the filing of charges against him.

Police recovered from Olvenario a .45 caliber pistol with six live ammunition, an old Temporary Operator’s Permit, a Land Transportation Office agent’s identification card, a PNP ID sling, an expired license of another handgun and a private security license.

Olvenario was reportedly on the highway wearing a pair of PNP pants and a PNP ID sling when arrested.

Police went to the area following reports from civilians about a person claiming to be a PNP traffic personnel and an LTO agent. The complainants also allegedly saw a gun tucked on the suspect’s waist.

Olvenario, who failed to show to the police documents of his gun during the arrest, will be charged for usurpation of authority and illegal possession of firearms.

A black motorcycle with plate number ZH 4621 that the suspect was using was impounded by police.

Meanwhile, LTO director Raul Aguilus said all agents deputized by LTO have new IDs bearing his signature. They also don’t use old TOPs.

Aguilus said Olvenario should be charged for his violation.