PNP Suspends NCRPO Chief, Anti-Cybercrime Chief Over Ermita POGO Raid Mess

November 8, 2024 Philippines Crime & Legal

Several high-ranking Philippine National Police (PNP) officials were suspended as authorities probed a controversial raid on a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) site in Ermita, Manila.

National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief Maj. Gen. Sidney Hernia and Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) chief Maj. Gen. Ronnie Francis Cariaga have been administratively relieved for 10 days starting November 7, 2024, PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo said in a press briefing.

READ: Century Peak Alleges Unwarranted Raid, Plans Legal Action vs. PNP

The Ermita raid, which targeted POGO workers suspected of illegal activities, sparked controversy due to its chaotic execution and the handling of the seized assets. Around 69 foreigners—34 Indonesian, 10 Malaysian, and 25 Chinese nationals—were nabbed during the operation that took place at the Century Peak Tower.

The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) flagged the operation as flawed, citing improper procedures and a lack of sufficient documentation, raising questions about potential corruption within the PNP.

Here’s why PAOCC described Manila POGO raid as “flawed”

Before becoming NCRPO chief, Hernia led the ACG, which was also implicated in a controversial POGO raid in Las Piñas on June 27, 2023, Rappler reported. The Department of Justice (DOJ) questioned irregularities in that raid, which took place at the Hongtai compound, where several foreign nationals were detained. In July 2023, the Court of Appeals ruled in favor of four foreigners who filed a habeas corpus case, ordering their release from PNP custody.

READ: PNP Chief Vows: No More POGOs in 2025

Four Chinese men earlier lodged a complaint with the National Police Commission, alleging that Hernia and his team tried to extort P1 million from each of them in exchange for the services of a lawyer with purported connections to the NCRPO and powerful figures.

DILG chief Jonvic Remulla stated that Hernia is being investigated for his actions during the Malate raid.

Fajardo asserted that there was nothing wrong with the operation. However, she acknowledged that issues were raised regarding the implementation of the cyber warrant and possible harassment of tenants during the operation.

Brig. Gen. Reynaldo Tamondong and Col. Vina Guzman will take over the NCRPO and ACG, respectively, as officers-in-charge.