MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) is investigating the circumstances surrounding the viral video of an anti-illegal drugs operation in Iloilo province showing a policeman allegedly planting evidence.
PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said the Western Visayas police conducted the operation in Barangay Poblacion in Duenas, Iloilo, resulting in the arrest of a male individual.
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During the suspect’s apprehension, a police officer confiscated a pack of narcotics, dropped it, and picked it up.
“The only thing seen [in the video] is that our policeman seems to be holding a plastic sachet, which is said to be planted,” Fajardo said in Filipino.
“We are willing to show the entirety of the video to show that it was evidence and it was not planted. But just the same, in the interest of transparency, we are investigating, and if we find any mistake, we will initiate appropriate action on this matter,” she added.
Citing police reports, the PNP official said that P41,000 worth of shabu was recovered from the suspect.
He is now under police custody and will face complaints for violating Article II, Section 5, and Section 11 of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.