Gamboa: Adjudication process for narco cops to begin Thursday

The adjudication process for the cops allegedly involved in illegal drugs will begin on Thursday, February 13, Philippine National Police chief Police General Archie Francisco Gamboa said Wednesday.

In an interview, Gamboa disclosed that of the 357 policemen accused of having links to illegal drugs trade, 15 availed OF optional retirement, and 43 others have gone AWOL (absence without leave), and they will no longer be adjudicated.

"Probably tomorrow mag-start na 'yung regional adjudication boards... Medyo kumonti na 'yung i-adjudicate natin kasi 15 plus 43 who are already marked on AWOL eh... 'yung the remaining 'yun na lang ang ita-try natin sa adjudication board," Gamboa said.

"Kapag nagsimula kasi 'yung adjudication at alam niyo parang sa proseso 'yan sa korte. Kapag nagsimula nang mag-isip ang huwes eh limitado na 'yung mga puwede mong i-offer na evidence, ganoon 'yun," he added.

Gamboa earlier said if the cops availed optional retirement, it does not mean they are already off the hook. Those who have gone AWOL will be administratively charged.

Gamboa had vowed he will not disclose the identities of the accused policemen. However, he pointed out that those involve are have ranks ranging from from patrolman to police brigadier general.

Gamboa said those on the list were included in the drug watch list of President Rodrigo Duterte. —LBG, GMA News