Robbery, grave threats filed vs cop who poked gun at US Embassy staff

Charges of robbery and grave threats were filed against a Pasay policeman who poked his gun at an employee of the United States Embassy Monday night. The police also lodged a case of grave misconduct against Police Officer 1 Fulgencio Sideco.

Senior Superintendent Marietto Valerio, Pasay police chief, said he also forwarded a recommendation to Southern Police District Director Jaime Calungsod that a summary dismissal proceeding be conducted on the case of Sideco.

“I also ordered the team hunting down Sideco to disarm him once they find the erring policeman,” Valerio said.

Initial investigation showed that at about 6 p.m. along the auxiliary road on Roxas Boulevard, Sideco reportedly flagged down the car of Renato Vega, 44, near the Department of Foreign Affairs building. Sideco was said to have scolded and accosted Vega for picking up passengers in the area. However, Vega argued that those he offered a ride are his friends.

Sideco allegedly asked for Vega’s license, but when Vega brought out his US Embassy identification card, the policeman became angry and poked his .9mm pistol against Vega’s chest and hurled invectives at Vega.

Valerio said a report that the policeman took the victim’s N72 cellphone, also reached his office.

The police official said this is the second time they received a complaint against Sideco. – Rhodina Villanueva