PNP to charge bets with alleged drug links

MANILA, Philippines — Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Guillermo Eleazar has warned that the PNP would go after candidates in next year’s election who have alleged ties with drug rings.

He noted that that the illegal drug trade, which he described as a lucrative business, could boost the campaign funds of these candidates. In return, the candidates would give them protection if they win.

“We will not allow this to happen. So, I have ordered the PDEG and Intelligence Group to look into this possibility,” he said in his statement, referring to the PNP’s Drug Enforcement Group.

“I warn candidates to stop investing in illegal drugs for their candidacy because I will expose you and make sure you will be disqualified and face charges when we have enough evidence,” he warned.

Eleazar issued the warning after lawmen led by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) seized around P1.28 billion worth of shabu in Bacoor City, Cavite last Friday.

He noted that authorities have already hauled P64 billion worth of illegal drugs and arrested over 307,000 suspects since the government’s war against drugs started in 2016.