CCPO probes "drug users" in PNP

CEBU, Philippines - Aside from the three policemen who were relieved amid allegations of coddling drug lords in Cebu City, several policemen who are reportedly using drugs may face the same fate.

Cebu City Police Office Director Melvin Ramon Buenafe said they are still gathering enough evidence to confirm such disturbing reports from his own men before he can release their names to the public. 

Once confirmed, these policemen may face administrative charges, relieved from their current posts or transferred to other regional offices.

He said that the CCPO image have already been tarnished because of what the three police officers did.

The three policemen have been transferred to the Police Regional Office – 7 while their case is still being investigated by the Regional Investigation and Detection Management Branch (RIDMB) - 7.

Buenafe likewise said that what happened to the three policemen should serve as a “warning” for policemen, especially the new recruits, not to involve themselves in such illegal acts.

The police, according to Buenafe, should not do things which are clearly against the rules and policies of the Philippine National Police. 

However, he is confident that the PRO–7 heads are doing everything to finish their investigation regarding the case of the three policemen.

During his stint at PRO-7 as an intelligence officer, Buenafe said they have received reports of the same policemen being involved in illegal drug operations. 

Buenafe added that once found guilty, the three policemen will be reassigned outside the region, as requested by Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama.

To recall, the three policemen were said to be involved in illegal drug trade in where they reportedly protect a local drug lord based in Barangay Duljo-Fatima, Cebu City.

Recently, Cebu Provincial Police Office Director Patrocinio Comendador also said that there are policemen who are involved in illegal activities throughout the province.

Comendador said they are still verifying the said reports concerning his men, adding that he will not tolerate such behavior.

Last September, SPO1 Ismael Modapil, who was assigned at Asturias Police Station, was charged with grave misconduct after testing positive in a random drug test conducted by the PNP Crime Laboratory. –(FREEMAN)