PNP Drug Enforcement Group chief relieved of post over alleged arrest cover-up
PUZZLER – Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos cited this security camera footage in questioning official reports about an October 2022 raid in Manila that led to the discovery of 990 kilos of crystal meth (“shabu”). The encircled figures are those of police officers whom he wanted investigated as he suspected a cover-up. (Photo from DILG)
MANILA, Philippines — Police Brig. Gen. Narciso Domingo, head of the Philippine National Police – Drug Enforcement Group (PDEG), has been relieved of his post, according to PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo.
Fajardo, in a text message to INQUIRER.net on Thursday, confirmed that Domingo was relieved as PDEG Director.
“Yes po he was relieved as Director, PDEG,” Fajardo said.
Fajardo also said that Brig. Gen. Faro Antonio Olaguera, who used to head the PNP Legal Service, would replace Domingo.
Domingo was dragged into controversy after his name surfaced as one of the high-ranking police officials who allegedly tried to cover up the arrest of anti-narcotics operative Police M/Sgt. Rodolfo Mayo in October, 2022.
Article continues after this advertisementMayo was apprehended during an anti-drug raid in Tondo, Manila, where 990 kilograms of crystal meth or shabu, with a street value of P6.7 billion, were seized.
Article continues after this advertisementLast Monday, Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. shared closed circuit television (CCTV) camera footage of Domingo and other high-ranking police officials entering an establishment where Mayo and several bags and luggage were brought.
After a discussion between Domingo and the other high-ranking police officials, Col. Michael Angelo C. Salmingo and Col. Julian Olonan who were part of the group, joined Mayo in a vehicle.
READ:DILG chief unveils ‘massive attempt to cover up’ dismissed cop Mayo’s arrest
READ: Cop with P6.7-billion ‘shabu’ stash was cited by PNP
Abalos then asked 10 police officials involved, including Domingo, to go on leave. Domingo, for his part denied any cover-up, assuring the leadership that they would comply with the order.
