PNP: No ‘grand conspiracy’ in Mayo drug case

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The PNP yesterday belied allegations of a “grand conspiracy to conceal a criminal enterprise” in the police force about the controversial anti-drug operation in 2022 in Manila that netted 990 kilos of shabu worth P6.7 billion.

“The Philippine National Police firmly denies allegations of a grand conspiracy within its ranks and reaffirms its zero-tolerance policy for misconduct,” the PNP said in a statement.

“We remain committed to upholding professionalism, integrity, and accountability in all aspects of our operations,” the statement added.

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On Monday, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said there appears to be a grand conspiracy to conceal a criminal enterprise in the PNP.

Remulla said this has become an institutional practice since 2016 until it was discovered in 2022 when police M/Sgt. Rodolfo Mayo was arrested.

Mayo owns the money lending firm in Manila raided by police operatives in October 2022. The operation resulted in the seizure of 990 kilos of shabu.

Last week, the Justice Department filed charges against 30 policemen, including generals, for alleged mishandling and planting of evidence in the high-profile case.

In its statement, the PNP said it continues to address allegations of wrongdoing within the organization through the Integrity Monitoring and Enforcement Group, Internal Affairs Service, and other investigative units.

“The PNP welcomes investigations and is ready to fully cooperate with any inquiry to uphold transparency, strengthen public trust, and reinforce good governance,” the PNP said.

It said it has adopted a “community-driven” and “bloodless” approach that prioritizes human and accountability in the continuing campaign against illegal drugs.

“Our efforts focus on dismantling drug supply chains, targeting high-value individuals, and fostering community partnerships for sustainable results,” the PNP said.

On claims that policemen were given monetary rewards if they killed a suspect in the war against drugs, the PNP said it “explicitly denies such allegations.”

“No Chief PNP, past or present, would ever condone such a practice. Rewards are strictly limited to the lawful arrest of wanted persons, governed by established regulations,” the PNP said.

“The PNP remains steadfast in its mission to serve and protect the Filipino people. We are committed to maintaining public trust, ensuring transparency, and upholding the rule of law,” the PNP added.

Remulla, in a television interview, said he called it a grand conspiracy “because it involved 30 people from all ranks” who are aware of the crime and have “full knowledge how to cover it up.

“I don’t know how else you define a conspiracy, but two or more engaged in a crime already constitutes a conspiracy,” said Remulla.

“These rogue elements have to be eliminated and have to be taken out of the system. They are destroying the morale of 99% of the police (force),” said Remulla.

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