ILOILO City – Three police officers have been relieved from their posts and are facing administrative charges for their alleged involvement in illegal gambling payola.
The officers, Police Non-Commissioned Officers (PNCOs) from the Aklan Police Provincial Office (APPO) and Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOCPPO), have been temporarily reassigned to the Regional Police Holding and Administrative Unit (RPHAU) of the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6).
They are currently under investigation by the Regional Investigation and Detective Management Division (RIDMD).
PRO-6 director Brigadier General Jack Wanky confirmed that the three officers are suspected of receiving protection money from illegal gambling operators.
They could face charges of grave misconduct, which could result in their dismissal from the police service.
“I have been reminding my policemen to stay away from illegal activities. They are barred from entering cockpits and nightclubs. Violating this order may lead to an administrative charge of grave misconduct, potentially resulting in dismissal,” said Wanky.
Wanky also mentioned that the immediate superiors of the accused officers would be investigated for command responsibility.
“Police chiefs must oversee the activities of their subordinates as they are liable for command responsibility. However, we will give them the chance to defend themselves,” said Wanky./PN
