Ex-informant carries bombs into MPD

MANILA, Philippines - A former police informant was arrested yesterday when he walked into the Manila Police District (MPD) carrying two improvised firebombs and a disposable lighter.

Benjamin Maurillo, 34, was allegedly about to light the cloth wick of one of the bombs when he was arrested at around 7 a.m. after MPD maintenance worker Richard de Guzman reported the presence of a suspicious-looking person in the MPD compound. 

Maurillo, who finds temporary work as an electrician and driver, said he previously helped the MPD’s District Anti-Illegal Drug (DAID) unit in its operations but felt betrayed when they did not give him his “cut.”

He also alleged that a police officer threatened to kill him if he continues to demand his commission.

DAID deputy officer Inspector Randy Veran admitted that Maurillo was indeed an informant but they lost confidence in him because of his behavior. 

“Two weeks ago, he came here volunteering himself to work as an asset. We were even giving him food because he does not have a home. But we realized he could be insane because sometimes, he would come here appearing as if he is high on drugs. We would also often catch him touching the evidence, looking as if he is ‘hungry for shabu,’” Veran said.  

Recently, four DAID police officers were charged after prohibited drugs were found in their lockers following a surprise inspection led by MPD director Senior Superintendent Rolando Nana.