2 traffic cops probed for extortion

MANILA, Philippines - Muntinlupa City Mayor Aldrin San Pedro gave strict orders to the city police chief to pursue investigation of two traffic policemen who were arrested when they allegedly tried to extort money from a junkshop owner in Barangay Tunasan.

The complainant, Oscar Espinoza, owner of Espinoza Junkshop, and the National Police Commission (Napolcom) regional office have filed charges of extortion, also known as “kotong,” against Senior Police Officer 1 Alfredo Mendoza and Police Officer 3 Celestino De los Santos.

The two policemen were arrested by an entrapment team from the Napolcom regional office and the regional intelligence and investigation division with the assistance of the crew of GMA-7’s “Imbestigador” television program last March 9. 

Following the incident, Muntinlupa police chief Senior Superintendent Elmer Jamias immediately relieved the two from their posts. Mendoza and De los Santos have been reassigned to the administration holding section of the Muntinlupa police while the investigation is ongoing.

“The Philippine National Police should immediately dismiss the two policemen if they are found guilty of the charges,” San Pedro said.   – Rhodina Villanueva