IAS to file admin raps vs EPD cops tagged in extortion of 2 Chinese

Philippine National Police headquarters in Camp Crame

MANILA, Philippines — The Internal Affairs Service (IAS) of the Philippine National Police (PNP) will file formal administrative complaints against Eastern Police District (EPD) personnel, who were involved in the alleged anomalies during the arrest of two Chinese individuals.

Citing the results of the initial investigation, IAS Inspector General Atty. Brigido Dulay said grave breaches of police operational procedures were committed during the reported arrest of complainant Jei Li, a Chinese national.

“IAS is already conducting its pre-charge investigation and is preparing to file formal administrative charges against the involved operatives and officers,” the PNP unit said in a statement on Monday.

“Preliminary findings indicate that the illegal operations may involve more than the eight DSOU (district special operations unit) personnel directly implicated in the case. IAS is now looking into the possible command responsibility of senior officers who may have tolerated, condoned, or failed to prevent these unlawful acts,” it added.

Dulay revealed the absence of body-worn camera recordings concerning the operation, and the deliberate destruction of CCTV cameras and footage, among others.

“The brazenness of this operation — from the absence of body-worn camera recordings to the deliberate destruction of CCTV cameras and footages, and the failure to promptly surrender and account for confiscated items — shows a blatant disregard for the law and police procedures,” he said.

“As PNP chief Rommel Marbil pointed out, this is not just a case of rogue elements; this points to a systemic failure in supervision and accountability,” he added.

Last week, 31 EPD personnel were involved in the case, as well as its director, Brig. Gen. Villamor Tuliao were relieved.

The police officers were reportedly involved in a raid that led to the purported theft of some P75 million in cash and valuables.

Based on reports, the officers raided a house in Las Piñas City last April 2 to serve an arrest warrant, which was outside their area of responsibility.