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Retired Police General Flees Country Amid PHP6.7-Billion Drug Case Controversy
Photo credit: PNP
A retired police general linked to the mishandling of a massive PHP6.7-billion drug haul in Manila has left the country, the Philippine National Police (PNP) confirmed on Monday.
In a press briefing at Camp Crame, PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo revealed that the officer departed the Philippines on January 8, just days before an arrest warrant was issued against him and 28 other officers. The charges? Alleged violations of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, including Section 92, which deals with delays and bungling in the prosecution of drug cases.
“We have a process, and we need to respect it,” Fajardo stated. “All of them are former PNP members, and we expect them to understand the gravity of the situation.”
The officers also face accusations of violating Section 29 of the law, which covers planting of evidence — a claim that has intensified the public’s demand for accountability.
Nine Still at Large
Among the accused, nine individuals—comprising active, retired, resigned, and dismissed personnel—remain on the run. Despite this, Fajardo reassured the public that the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) is actively pursuing them. “So far, no surrender feelers have been received, but efforts are ongoing,” she added.
To expedite the case, prosecutors are expected to request a hold departure order against the remaining suspects. Arrest warrants have already been issued by Manila Regional Trial Court Branches 175 and 44.
Task Force 29 Steps In
To ensure justice, the PNP has established Task Force 29 to track down and apprehend the officers involved. The accused list includes high-ranking officials such as Lt. Gen. Benjamin Santos Jr., Brig. Gen. Narciso Domingo, and Col. Julian Olonan, among others.
As the investigation unfolds, the spotlight remains on the PNP to demonstrate its commitment to cleaning house and ensuring accountability.
Stay tuned as this high-stakes case continues to unfold. Will the remaining suspects face the music, or will the controversy deepen?
In a press briefing at Camp Crame, PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo revealed that the officer departed the Philippines on January 8, just days before an arrest warrant was issued against him and 28 other officers. The charges? Alleged violations of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, including Section 92, which deals with delays and bungling in the prosecution of drug cases.
“We have a process, and we need to respect it,” Fajardo stated. “All of them are former PNP members, and we expect them to understand the gravity of the situation.”
The officers also face accusations of violating Section 29 of the law, which covers planting of evidence — a claim that has intensified the public’s demand for accountability.
Nine Still at Large
Among the accused, nine individuals—comprising active, retired, resigned, and dismissed personnel—remain on the run. Despite this, Fajardo reassured the public that the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) is actively pursuing them. “So far, no surrender feelers have been received, but efforts are ongoing,” she added.
To expedite the case, prosecutors are expected to request a hold departure order against the remaining suspects. Arrest warrants have already been issued by Manila Regional Trial Court Branches 175 and 44.
Task Force 29 Steps In
To ensure justice, the PNP has established Task Force 29 to track down and apprehend the officers involved. The accused list includes high-ranking officials such as Lt. Gen. Benjamin Santos Jr., Brig. Gen. Narciso Domingo, and Col. Julian Olonan, among others.
As the investigation unfolds, the spotlight remains on the PNP to demonstrate its commitment to cleaning house and ensuring accountability.
Stay tuned as this high-stakes case continues to unfold. Will the remaining suspects face the music, or will the controversy deepen?
Jan 28, 2025
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