In Negros Occidental PNP chief warns police's involvement in gambling

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines - Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Director General Nicanor Bartolome warned Negros Occidental policemen not to be involved in illegal gambling and not to be selective in arresting persons involved in illegal gambling activities.

Bartolome, who was in the city on Friday, said any police officer caught of these offenses will face administrative and criminal sanctions, and possible dismissal from the service.

He said he issued this statement in the midst of reports alleging that some police officers here were being selective in the apprehension of suspects in the illegal gambling operations.

"We should not be selective in the campaign, we should be fair to everyone, if it is illegal then it should apply to all," Bartolome told reporters here during the presentation of about 23 hot cars recovered by the Constabulary Highway Patrol Group at the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office.

"I have been very vocal about the illegal gambling campaign. It should be given emphasis," he said.

Bartolome said the PNP National Headquarters continued to receive accomplishment reports from the field units on a daily basis as a requirement. "We will not stop, there will be no let-up in the campaign against illegal gambling," he said.

He however clarified that there must be substantial proof against police officers who are being accused of involvement in illegal gambling. "We need evidences on those involved in the illegal activity," he said.

He also urged the community to report those involved in the activity to the police. "We welcome information from you, from our constituents and from the public on this," he said.

Bartolome further reminded that the one-strike policy is still being implemented against police officers found to be involved in illegal gambling. There were several police officers who were already relieved from their post due to this PNP policy, he added.