‘Fake cop’ nabbed in Zambales after eluding checkpoint

This blue Toyota Innova was flagged down at a checkpoint in Zambales province after police noticed that it was carrying nine passengers, including minors. The driver claimed he is a policeman but drove off only to be accosted again at another checkpoint. (Photo from Zambales police office)

SAN ANTONIO, Zambales — A man allegedly posing as a police officer was arrested at a checkpoint along the national highway in Cabangan town on Tuesday, May 18.

Col. Romano Cardiño, Zambales police director, identified the suspect as Medel dela Cruz, 43, a resident of Olongapo City.

Cardiño said police initially flagged down the suspect’s blue Toyota Innova at another checkpoint in Barangay Sto. Tomas in Subic town when they noticed that it was carrying nine people, including five minors.

The driver, who was wearing a shirt similar to a police uniform, introduced himself as a police colonel from Pulilan town in Bulacan province.

But when asked for documents to prove his identity, the suspect drove off and was accosted at a checkpoint in Cabangan.

Police recovered an unloaded .45-caliber pistol, a magazine, and six live ammunition from the suspect.

The suspect is now detained and will be charged with usurpation of authority and unauthorized use of police uniform, illegal possession of firearms, and violation of health protocols.