Cop faces probe for misconduct

CEBU, Philippines - A policeman is facing an investigation for allegedly reporting for duty under the influence of liquor and for threatening a fellow policeman.

The Provincial Investigation and Detective Management Branch (PIDMB) has placed SPO1 Joel Miñoza under investigation based on the complaints of PO1 Rodel Monteza, PO2 Jerwin Arado and PO2 Andy Gonez.

Miñoza, team leader in Oslob police station, was allegedly drunk when he reported for duty last Saturday.

Monteza, assigned as one of the alert personnel, said that Miñoza got mad at him for allegedly padlocking their barracks.

“Wala man to nako gi-lock ang pultahan, gisirado lang pero hubog na siya daan (I did not lock the door although it was closed, but he was already drunk)” Monteza said.

Monteza said he tried to avoid his senior officer but the latter followed him at their station. Miñoza allegedly went directly to their supply office and took a fully-loaded M16 rifle without the consent of the supply Police Non Commission Officer (PNCO).

Miñoza only calmed down when assistant team leader, SPO1 Shane Montayre, arrived. Miñoza denied the allegation at first but was forced to admit during interrogation.

Insp. Julius Ompad, PIDMB chief, said their investigation will be for the purpose of filing an administrative case against Miñoza.

Ompad said Miñoza will be relieved to the Provincial Public Safety Company for security reason while they are conducting investigation and pending order from the Provincial Personnel and Human Resources and Development Branch (PPHRDB) for his reassignment.

He was already ordered to turnover his service pistol to the provincial headquarters.— (FREEMAN)