Razon: Rogue cops will be punished

Philippine National Police chief Director General Avelino Razon Jr. vowed there would be no letup in the PNP’s campaign against police officers involved in criminal activities.

“Just as we are responsive to the morale and welfare needs of police personnel, and quick to give due recognition for outstanding performance of duty, we are also swift and decisive in addressing issues on misconduct and breach of discipline,” Razon said, adding that it is not enough that PNP personnel involved in criminal activities be separated from the service, but they must also be punished for the crime they committed.

He issued the warning as he ordered a pre-charge investigation into the alleged robbery-extortion activities of some members of an anti-narcotics unit of the Manila Police District (MPD).

The suspects include Chief Inspector Resty Nicandro and six of his subordinates assigned with the Station Anti-Illegal Drugs Units (SAIDU) of the MPD Station 4 in Sampaloc, Manila: Senior Police Officer 1 Maurito Reneido, PO2 Christopher Pantaleon, PO1 Victorino Salao, SPO1 Benedicto Llorica, PO2 Jesus de Leon, and PO1 Ernesto Pacierto.

Two women claimed they were arrested by the group last week on false charges of drug possession and were made to pay P40,000 for their release. They added they were also divested of their cash, valuables and a motorcycle.

Aside from the two women, two men also filed a similar complaint against the seven police officers last Oct. 28.

MPD director Chief Superintendent Roberto Rosales, meanwhile, warned his officers to either “shape up or ship out,” as he reiterated his earlier warning that non-performing officials will be relieved in the forthcoming top-to-bottom revamp of station commanders and chiefs of headquarter units.

“I am aware that some of these officials have zero performance. Unless they shape up now, they should start packing up,” Rosales said.

He also assured MPD policemen of promotion for meritorious jobs. Known as a hands-on official, Rosales makes surprise visits of police stations and unit offices.

Rosales also urged the public to directly report to him their complaints about his personnel through his cell phone number 0918-4072792. – Cecille Suerte Felipe, Nestor Etolle