Malacañang won’t release evidence vs top cops linked with drugs

Malacanang on Wednesday refused to disclose the evidence against the five high-ranking police officials tagged by President Rodrigo Duterte who are involved in the illegal drugs trade.

“The evidence (documentary or testimonial) against the named generals should not be released yet as it may prejudice the administrative and criminal investigation/s and case/s against them,” Communications Secretary Martin Andanar told reporters in a text message.

“A premature release of evidence through the media may also violate the constitutional right to due process of those involved,” Andanar added.

On Tuesday, Duterte tagged five police generals who were involved in the illegal drugs trade or protection of drug syndicates.

READ: Duterte names top cops allegedly involved in illegal drugs trade

The chief executive named former Philippine National Police (PNP) deputy director Gen. Marcelo Garbo Jr., Gen. Vicente Loot, Gen. Bernardo Diaz of Police Regional Office 6, former National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief Joel Pagdilao, and  former Quezon City Police District (QCPD) chief Edgardo Tinio.

The President said the police officials supposedly involved in illegal drugs or protection of drug syndicates committed treason because they destroy people’s lives, citing the government funded their education through taxpayers’ money.

He ordered the involved police officials to report to PNP Chief Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa. He also directed the National Police Commission (Napolcom) to investigate.

Andanar said Napolcom has general supervision over the PNP.

“Only administrative cases will be filed there. Ultimate penalty they can give is dismissal from service,” he said.

Asked if the President would apologize if his allegations were proven wrong Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said, “Let us wait for developments.” CDG

READ: Top cops deny drug links