2 collared for stealing vehicles held as evidence

Two police officers were arrested by their fellow officers after each of them used evidence vehicles seized in earlier operations.

Agents of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group arrested Pat. Anthony Lacandazo, of the Highway Patrol Group in Calabarzon region, in Sta. Rosa, Laguna, on Thursday as he was driving a stolen van that was being held as evidence after it was used in a robbery in July.

Two days earlier, Pat. Marvin Salim of the Obando police was arrested while using a Yamaha motorcycle which was also held as evidence.

Police Integrity Monitoring and Enforcement Group chief Brig. Gen. Warren de Leon warned police officers “[not to] challenge our internal cleansing program. This has been a long-sought endeavor of the Philippine National Police and it will only be successful if [it has] the active support of all PNP units and the community.” —DEXTER CABALZA

READ: Man suspected of stealing cars arrested after driving stolen vehicle to court