Police General Axed for Command Responsibility in POGO Raid

During a POGO raid in Paranaque,  officers were found to have planted firearms and attempted to destroy closed-circuit television (CCTV) recordings.

A high-ranking police officer is facing dismissal from the service for failing to prevent the unlawful arrest, detention, and robbery of four Chinese nationals by his subordinates. 

The incident, which occurred during a police raid in Parañaque City last September 16, 2023, led to an investigation by the PNP Internal Affairs Service. PNP did not disclose the name of the official. 

“The Internal Affairs Service (IAS) has concluded its investigation into the controversial police operation conducted in September 2023, recommending the dismissal of a police general under the principle of command responsibility and gross neglect of duty. This decision underscores the PNP's unwavering commitment to accountability and integrity within its ranks,” IAS Inspector General Brigido J. Dulay said in a statement, as reported by the Manila Bulletin.  

The officer was found guilty of command responsibility and gross neglect of duty. 

Last September, ten Chinese nationals and a Filipino were arrested during a police operation, while several other Chinese nationals were rescued. Police reported seizing P4.6 million in cash. However, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) later discovered irregularities in the operation. 

The arrested individuals complained of arbitrary detention and the illegal confiscation of personal belongings not listed in the search warrant. Investigations revealed that police officers confiscated P27 million in cash not included in the warrant and intentionally omitted other valuables from the official inventory. The officers were also found to have planted firearms, attempted to destroy CCTV footage, and deactivated their body-worn cameras during the operation.

The incident sparked a congressional investigation, revealing that the victims were held captive, deprived of their rights, and extorted for millions of pesos. At the time, the PNP has vowed to address the issue and take strict action against erring personnel.

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