Two policemen positive of drugs

CEBU, Philippines -  Two police officers were found positive of illegal drug use during a random test conducted at the Cebu Provincial Police Office (CPPO) yesterday morning.

Cebu Provincial Police Office Director, Sr. Supt. Patrocinio Comendador, did not disclose the names of the two pending confirmatory test, although he said one is currently assigned at the Provincial Police Holding and Administrative Unit (PPHAU) and the other is assigned in one of the police stations in southern Cebu.

 At least 50 personnel underwent a drug test as part of the regular check up.

Comendador received reports that the policeman at the PPHAU was using illegal drugs. Last month, when the CPPO conducted a random drug test, this policeman suddenly left his post.

In yesterday’s test, the policeman again tried to excuse himself saying that his child is admitted to the hospital but Comendador ignored this.

Comendador also confiscated the policeman’s service 9mm pistol.

The other policeman was part of the night watch patrol of the CPPO Thursday evening. He just arrived at the headquarters yesterday morning for attendance when they were called to have a drug testing, which left the cop with no excuse.

Comendador admitted some policemen are lured to the illegal drug trade or illegal gambling for the money.

Recently, at least seven members of the Cebu City Police Office were dismissed from service after they failed in a random drug test conducted by the CCPO last year.

The Regional Appellate Board (RAB) of the National Police Commission dismissed from service the seven policemen for grave misconduct.

A statement from the Regional Police Office-7 said PO1 Rico Caballero, PO1 Kristopper James Talam, PO1 Bob Maglasang, and PO1 Gary Aying were guilty of grave misconduct and were dismissed from service effective April 12 this year.

The PRO-7 said PO2 Elyzer Zafico and PO1 Mohammad Bungkalot were also found guilty of the same offense but there was no record on whether they filed an appeal.

PO1 Gregorio Bercero is likewise guilty of grave misconduct but has pending appeal with the RAB.  (FREEMAN)