Cop nabbed for ‘extortion’

CEBU, Philippines - A policeman accused of extortion was arrested by the agents of the National Bureau of Investigation in Central Visayas during an entrapment operation yesterday afternoon.

PO2 Joselito Laspiñas was caught few meters away from the Waterfront Police Station where he is assigned.

Agent Teodoro Saavedra said the arrest of Laspiñas stemmed from a complaint filed by Michael Detuya, a resident of Barangay Labangon.

Detuya sought the help of the NBI after Laspiñas reportedly demanded money for the release of his live-in partner, Jennier Lantaca, who was detained for qualified theft.

Detuya told the NBI agents that he had met with Laspiñas yesterday dawn at the back of the police station. The suspect allegedly asked for money so he can process the release of Lantaca.

Lantaca, who works as sales lady, was arrested by the members of the Waterfront Police Station last Saturday for qualified theft.

Detuya said he offered to give P4,000 but the suspect settled only for P3,000.  After the meeting, Detuya went to ask the help of the NBI, thus, the entrapment operation.

Laspiñas denied demanding money from the complainant. He, however, refused to give further comment. A criminal complaint for extortion will be filed today against Laspiñas. (FREEMAN)