PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil yesterday reiterated his zero tolerance on rogue policemen after the recent arrest of seven policemen in Parañaque City for extortion.
“The PNP will take swift and decisive action to expel such officers from the service and ensure they are held accountable for their actions,” Marbil said.
The seven, including two officers, were nabbed after they extorted P100,000 from a Chinese businessman in exchange for the release of his vehicle that the policemen flagged down last Thursday.
Reports said the Chinese businessman presented documents covering his vehicle, but the officers accused him of possessing falsified documents and brought him and his vehicle to the police station.
The policemen reportedly demanded P300,000 from the Chinese in exchange for the release of his vehicle. This was later lowered to P100,000, which was paid through an interpreter acting as a mediator.
The policemen were arrested and subsequently charged with robbery-extortion before the Parañaque City Prosecutor’s Office.
“This incident serves as a stark reminder that any officer who betrays the trust of the Filipino people will face the full force of the law,” said Marbil.
“I want to make it clear that these officers made a personal choice to engage in wrongdoing. If they lose their work or face consequences, they are the ones responsible for their actions. The PNP will never shield anyone who betrays their duty and the trust of the people,” said Marbil.
Marbil stressed that the PNP will not allow a few corrupt policemen to tarnish the integrity of the police force.
He added that the PNP is resolute in its commitment to pursue justice, adding, “We will not rest until all those responsible for criminal acts within the force are removed.
“We want the public to know that the PNP will never give a second chance nor tolerate anyone who tarnishes our uniform. The rule of law will always prevail, and those who violate it will face the consequences,” the PNP chief added.
The PNP disclosed that it has resolved 3,611 cases involving policemen from April 1 last year to April 23 this year.
It said this led to 1,288 dismissals, 172 demotions, 1,456 suspensions and other disciplinary actions, such as salary forfeitures, reprimands and restrictions.
