MPD probes release of man selling fake Viagra

MANILA, Philippines – A full-dress investigation is ongoing over the release of a Chinese businessman recently arrested allegedly for flooding the market with fake Viagra, a drug used to treat erectile dysfunction.

Manila Police District director Chief Superintendent Rodolfo Magtibay told Chief Inspector Froilan Uy to find out those responsible for the arrest and subsequent release of Jimmy Chua, 21, owner of Maning Chinese Drugstore at the corner of Ongpin and Tambacan streets in Sta. Cruz.

Uy said operatives of the District Police Intelligence and Operations Unit (DPIOU) arrested Chua Saturday night allegedly for possession of fake Viagra. Arresting policemen said Chief Inspector Rizalindo Morales, deputy chief of the Meisic police station, interceded for Chua’s release without any charges filed.

Sources said Chua shelled out P200,000 to police officials who facilitated his release. 

However, Morales said he went to the MPD headquarters to verify Chua’s condition upon the instigation of barangay councilman Jeff Tee, reportedly a relative of Chua.

Morales said it was retired police colonel Bernardo Halili of the Manila City Hall who worked for Chua’s release.

DPIOU operatives said they had no choice but to release Chua with no charges filed since there was pressure from high-ranking police officials. They said the arrest was properly recorded in the police blotter.

MPD sources said DPIOU operatives allegedly received P10,000 from Tee in exchange for Chua’s release. The P200,000 was reportedly given to a high police official.

MPD sources wondered why DPIOU operatives had to release Chua if they had done a legitimate police operation. There are reports that Chua was arrested without a complaint, especially from the Bureau of Food and Drugs, which could ascertain that the Viagra tablets recovered from Chua were fake.

Uy said heads will definitely roll after he completes the investigation.