Fake cop nabbed in Zambales

ZAMBALES, Philippines — A man posing as a police officer was arrested at a checkpoint in Cabangan town in this province on Saturday.

Medel de la Cruz, 43, who was driving a Toyota Innova, was first flagged down by police officers manning a checkpoint in Barangay Sto. Tomas in Subic.

The officers noticed that there were nine people including five minors in Dela Cruz’s vehicle.

Instead of pulling over, Dela Cruz reportedly drove off, prompting the officers to chase him.

When cornered, the suspect introduced himself as a member of the Pulilan police in Bulacan.

Dela Cruz drove off anew when he was asked to present documents to prove his identity.

He was intercepted at a checkpoint in Cabangan, where he was arrested and brought to the police station.

Verification showed the suspect was not connected with the Philippine National Police.

Authorities seized from De la Cruz a pistol and ammunition.