Cop arrested in Pasay drug buy-bust, SPD says

A police officer was arrested in an anti-illegal drug operation in Pasay City on Wednesday, the Southern Police District (SPD) has said.

In a statement issued Thursday, the SPD identified the cop as one alias Micheal, 37, who was allegedly caught selling illegal drugs to an undercover operative at a fast food chain on Roxas Boulevard.

Micheal was assigned to Angeles City Police Station, according to the SPD.

Seized during the operation were the following:

• seven plastic sachets of suspected shabu weighing a total of 35 grams and worth around P238,00. one genuine P1,000 bill
• four photocopied P1,000 bills used as buy-bust money.
• PNP-issued Glock 17 pistol
• magazine
• fourteen rounds of 9mm live ammunition were also recovered.
• Smartphone
• analog phone
• digital weighing scale
• holster
• wallet containing identification cards and cash
• black sling bag
• a pair of handcuffs engraved with ‘MBM’
• nine P100 bills
• two P500 bills
• PNP ID card
• Unified Multi-Purpose ID.

These items were turned over to the SPD Forensic Unit for laboratory examination.

Charges for violations of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, and Omnibus Election Code have been filed with the Pasay City Prosecutor’s Office against the suspect.

SPD chief Police Brigadier General Manuel Abrugena expressed his disappointment over the involvement of a cop in illegal drug trade.

"It is disheartening to see one of our own engaging in the very crimes we are working tirelessly to eradicate. The PNP does not and will never tolerate such actions. This arrest should serve as a strong message that no one is above the law," Abrugena said.

"I acknowledge the efforts of our officers who conducted this operation professionally and without hesitation. Their dedication proves that we remain committed to our mission to rid our communities of illegal drugs, regardless of who is involved," he added. — Joviland Rita/RSJ, GMA Integrated News