23 Lapu-Lapu cops relieved

CEBU, Philippines - At least 23 policemen from Lapu-Lapu City Police Office allegedly involved in the illegal drug trade were relieved from their posts.

"Kanang tanan allegedly involved, wa na diri," said LCPO director Senior Supt. Rommel Cabagnot yesterday.

These policemen were sent to Police Regional Office-7 two months ago to undergo the Balik Eskwela program of the Philippine National Police, according to Cabagnot.

Cabagnot was not certain as to which specific police stations the 23 personnel are currently assigned.

"Actually ni-duty na man 'to sila ron, sa other provinces tsaka cities. Uban naa sa Cebu, sa Mandaue, ang uban sa Cebu Province," he said.

Of the 23, ten were made to directly report to Mayor Paz Radaza recently after the mayor received reports from concerned citizens that these policemen are engaged in illegal drug activities.

This was confirmed by Radaza herself during yesterday's press conference.

"Ang komunidad mo-mention g'yud na sila as to kinsa na pulis ang involved sa drug activities sa barangay," Radaza said.

The mayor said she will validate in coordination with LCPO whether the police officers are really involved in illegal drugs.

Meanwhile, Cabagnot said 11 new police personnel are now assigned at LCPO, which he thinks is not enough.

The police official said he will probably ask for additional personnel from PRO-7.

Last November 10, four police officials and 18 police officers in Camotes were also relieved form their posts.

Cebu Provincial Police Office director Senior Supt. Eric Noble said the relief order came from PRO-7, and that the relieved policemen have shown "poor performance" in the war against illegal drugs in the island, which was allegedly a "transshipment point" of illegal drugs. (FREEMAN)