EPD special ops chief in ‘irregular’ arrest of 2 Chinese declared AWOL

Philippine National Police Spokesperson, Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo. Inquirer.net file photo/Faith Argosino

MANILA, Philippines — The chief of the Eastern Police District Special Operations Unit (EPD DSOU) was declared absent without official leave (AWOL), according to the Philippine National Police (PNP).

EPD DSOU Chief Maj. Emerson Coballes was among the 31 personnel relieved by then-District Director Brig. Gen. Villamor Tuliao for alleged irregularities in the arrest of two Chinese individuals in Las Piñas City last April 2.

“A return-to-work order was sent to him. Until now, he hasn’t shown up. So, his status is AWOL,” PNP Spokesperson, Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo said in an interview with reporters in Camp Crame on Thursday.

Fajardo added that the National Capital Region Internal Affairs Service was investigating to see what administrative cases can be filed against eight DSOU personnel alleged to be directly involved in the supposed irregularities.

Administrative cases

READ: NCRPO sacks 31 cops over alleged irregularities in arrest of 2 Chinese

A police investigation report said the operatives carted away millions in cash in local and foreign currencies, luxury bags, watches, jewelry and smartphones, with the DSOU personnel claiming it was part of a bribe by the Chinese individuals.

The report, however, added that operatives failed to wear body-worn cameras and immediately provide a sketch or spot report.

READ: EPD chief sacked over alleged irregularities in arrest of 2 Chinese

The eight DSOU personnel were placed under restrictive custody, while Tuliao was relieved as district director “under the principle of command responsibility.”