4 cops linked to illegal drugs

CEBU, Philippines - Four members of the Canlaon City Police in Negros Oriental were relieved from their posts for their alleged involvement in the illegal drugs trade.

Negros Oriental Provincial Police Office (NOrPPO) OIC director, Supt. Alet Virtucio, said one of the four was found positive of drug use, while the rest are now under investigation for allegedly providing protection to drug dealers in the city.

The identity of the three Canlaon policemen, who are now transferred to other stations in the province, has been withheld, but Virtucio said the policeman who tested positive of drug use, was PO1 Christian Calderon.

Calderon is now facing administrative charges and may be dismissed from the service if found guilty by a summary hearing at the Police Regional Office-7 in Cebu City.

Virtucio also relieved the former police chief of Canlaon City and instructed the new police chief, Sr. Insp. Romeo Cubo, to pursue anti-illegal drugs operations there.

A random drug testing of Canlaon City police personnel was conducted in late December after reports reaching Virtucio said the illegal drugs trade in that mountain city in Northern Negros Oriental was increasing.  (FREEMAN)