Policeman in AWOL status faces raps for “robbery” case

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu City Prosecutor’s Office indicted a policeman before the Regional Trial Court for allegedly being involved in a robbery case.

State Prosecutor Raul Cristoria held PO2 Ronilo Manuel, a resident of Barangay Duljo Fatima, and Benito Andres Abiar for trial after the two choose not to answer the allegations filed against them before their office. Cristoria said that the two chose to face the case before the court.

The state prosecutor recommended a bail of P100,000 for each of the accused for their temporary liberty.

Manuel and Abiar were positively identified by Rochel Cueco, 22, a resident of Bakilid, Mandaue City as those who robbed her along R. Landon Street, Cebu City at around 3 a.m. last Wednesday.

The two suspects were reportedly on board their motorcycle when they approached the victims and declared a holdup while pointing a gun at her. Manuel and Abiar allegedly took her bag containing important documents, a cellular phone and P4,000 cash.

After the victim reported the incident at the police station, Manuel and Abiar tried to clear their name but were immediately arrested.

It was found out that Manuel was AWOL from service and that he also pawned his service firearm. He is now facing an investigation before the Investigation and Detective Management Branch of the Cebu City Police Office for an administrative complaint. —/ATO (FREEMAN)