File photo
MANILA, Philippines — Two Caloocan City police officers and an individual were arrested in Quezon City on Monday afternoon for reportedly robbing and extorting money from a person allegedly involved in illegal drugs.
In a report on Tuesday, the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) said the two officers, Staff Sergeant Russel Ortega and Corporal Joel Taboga, and a civilian named Robin Caidic were collared during a police operation in front of Balon Bato Barangay Hall around 4:40 p.m.
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Based on the investigation, victim Gerald Andrade claimed that he was on a motorcycle when the suspects, along with other police officers, blocked his path and reportedly took his wallet containing about P16,000.
Andrade, however, managed to escape from the police officers.
He was chased until the barangay hall, where the suspects were apprehended by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Unit (CIDU) operatives.
Prior to this situation, another officer backtracking CCTV footage for a homicide case saw the suspects running after the complainant.
This discovery prompted the CIDU operatives to quickly respond and go to the area.
When asked for documents indicating the legality of the suspects’ operation, QCPD said the suspects “failed to present any.”
The three arrested individuals and the complainant were brought to CIDU, along with the confiscated motorcycle and the P16,000 worth of cash.
Authorities are tracking down four other police officers for possible involvement.
They are Corporal Judy Rizare, Corporal Andy Moja, Corporal Mark Anthony Vinagrera and Corporal Alvin Cruz — who remain at large.